Broken Heart
By, Felicia Mings
Every Sunday you could see him. His black # 3 could stand out anywhere. His presence among the NASCAR family was unmistakable. With his cool stare and calm demeanor he was a king among these men. He had his own style of racing. Everyone could learn something from him and most everyone did. The impact of his life effected millions. Smart, funny, caring, and relentless on the track. Dale lived to race. As with so many drivers racing was not just what he did it was who he was. It ran in his blood. Dale was always the first to help out his fellow drivers in any way he could, but make no mistake that, when the checkered flag came out he was never beyond giving you a little tap. The name "The Intimidator" was rightly given to him with all the love and humor that is shared between the drivers and their fans. Every man on the track knew that if he saw the #3 behind him and he was slowing Dale up he could expect a little tap. - Just to let you know he was there, in case you weren't already aware. -
When news came of the great loss my heart broke. I am a loyal NASCAR fan and I know, beyond a doubt, that for the rest of my life no race will be complete without Dale in it. Despite my best efforts my heart aches and my mind is replaying all the races', all the little rubs, all the smiles, and all the fun that Dale brought to this sport and its fans. He was more than just a NASCAR driver. He was a father, a husband, and a friend. He was a leader among men, an icon and a legend.
No one will ever forget this man. What he did for the sport we all love or his genuine smile, which was always ready for everyone. He died doing what he loved. He got to see his son race, and win, in the same great way he did. It is almost fitting that his end came in the race that was always his Achilles heel. After years and years of racing Dale Earnhardt won the Daytona 500 in 1998. Then three years later that same race claimed his life.
Dale, we will always miss you. I look forward to the day that I can see that black #3 racing around on the golden streets of heaven. Gun the engine, go for the win, and remember: If you aren’t rubbing. You aren’t racing.
Dale Ralph Earnhardt
April 29th, 1951 - February 18th, 2001
Always remember The Intimidator
