I really don't think we're gonna hear about Dale Jr. falling down in the shower, but then again the media is always going to play up whatever they think will win ratings.
But I do think that the "healing process", whatever that means to each person, was supposed to start this weekend. For the drivers and fans, it was the first time back to the track. Even for some members of the media, who had gotten to know Dale Sr. For Dale Jr. in particular, it was a critical time. We have no concept of what that guy is going through after the loss of his dad, mentor, and boss. A good showing would have gone a long way towards putting the pain aside and going forward, and I think he had the blessing of all the fans in that regard. Yes, Jr's finished dead-last before, but of all the races where it could have happened...
That said, I like you hope that the news media will not hang on every word and action of Jr. this year. I especially hope that they will not stick a microphone in his face everywhere he goes. Give the poor guy his space, let him grieve in his own way, and let's see some more of that talent us NASCAR fans have enjoyed over the last few years. I'm going to Vegas for this weekend's race, and I hope to see him do well.
------------------
Greg
91 LX Convertible
[This message has been edited by cleangreenmachine (edited 02-26-2001).]
|