Nitrowilly
Nitro Member
This is my first post on this site. I didn't know Rick was retiring and I would like to share a moment that says something about the man. Like anyone, they have the desire to be personal at the races, but unfortunately, they are bound by the responsibility to appear distant and show no favoritism. Buster was a legend and a tough act to follow, yes, I said act because the starter is certainly the center of attention with big responsibilities. I only had words with Rick on a couple of occasions and the conversations were brief. He would sometimes smile as if to say goodluck in passing to back up the car. I even remember once or twice getting a subtle thumbs up in the finals and I am sure he did that with others. He struck me as professional, serious, and well aware of the image that was expected of him. I guess the level of animation on the line didn't mean much to me, his performance is all that mattered. This year in Charlotte in the first round, I was out in front backing the car up when I tore the miniscus in my left knee. The back-up starter helped me balance long enough to get the car into the beam then helped me to the wall so the cars could make the pass. I was a bit embarrased and hoped I didn't upset Rick or the other team. As soon as the cars left the line, Rick put down his equipment and came over to the wall, put his hand on my shoulder, looked me in the eyes and asked if I needed the paramedics or an ambulance. That's when I knew I must have looked really silly out there. I know that doesn't sound like much but it meant alot to me because he didn't need to do that, I had someone helping me and didn't think it was that bad.
So I say goodluck Rick and congratulations on doing what some of us are not yet smart enough to do.
Bill
So I say goodluck Rick and congratulations on doing what some of us are not yet smart enough to do.
Bill
