The world lost a great human being today. Rest in peace Nicky - you represented our sport with dignity and class.
Never met him or his family, but it's undeniable the effect they had on the racing community. The racing world lost a hero. A great family lost a brother, fiance, and Son. I can usually rationalize life and death but this is just senseless. You can tell the measure of a man by the way he's valued by his peers. Nicky was gold. RIP Champ. You left a mark for sure.
Damn. As soon as I hit the beeb and saw that the thread had jumped a bunch of pages, I just knew.......and my heart sank. RIP Nicky, and God speed
(yes a double post) While I no ideas on Nicky's alcohol consumption patterns, but the Beeb has >>>PLENTY<<< of alcohol consumption patterns... I propose a nationwide (?worldwide?) TOAST to America's Ambassador of Speed, The Kentucky Kid, at 10 PM Eastern tonight of your preferred libation. Mine will be a good Kentucky Bourbon or a Bourbon Barrel-aged beer/ale/porter in homage to his home and his nickname. See you at 10 PM, go get your pour before the liquor store closes. Deeply gutted, wanting to celebrate this fine young man. Loved his racing at Mid-Ohio. Will be re-watching the Laguna Seca MotoGP races again at toast time...
Lets all make sure to wish Rog a Happy Birthday next Tuesday (30th). He could likely use some love ... -jim
I've been watching the clip of Nicky and Earl taking a lap. Brings tears to my eyes every time. I can only imagine what his parents are going through. Parents are NOT supposed to bury their kids. Ever. So sad now. I'll be joining in on the toast with you all tonight.