Mike Thompson: “It has been almost two weeks since American sports lost one of its greatest legends. On a Sunday, just like any other…”

“It has been almost two weeks since American sports lost one of its greatest legends. On a Sunday, just like any other Sunday, millions of NASCAR fans watched the concluding laps of the Daytona 500 race. But February 18, 2001 is a Sunday that even those who were not at the race track, or glued to their televisions, will never forget. This was the day that we lost the person who many say was the sport's fiercest competitor. I am, of course, speaking of Dale Earnhardt, a man who was aptly described as both 'NASCAR's greatest driver' and 'the Intimidator.' As fans, friends and family continue to mourn his death, he is also remembered by labels such as 'devoted husband' and 'loving father' whose fearlessness on the track was eclipsed only by the size of his heart. Adults and children alike are searching for the reasons why their hero was taken from them. Dale Earnhardt brought these strangers together, week after week, as a family devoted to following his career and celebrating his many victories.”