Remembering Alan
By: Lori Tyler
Date: 03/30/2000
http://tachzone.rivals.com
On April 1st, 1993, NASCAR mourned the loss of one of its most prized drivers. Alan Kulwicki was tragically killed in a plane crash just outside of Bristol, Tennessee.
While time continues to march forward, and drivers come and go in the Winston Cup Series, there will always be room in the hearts of the drivers and fans for their fallen hero.
His first experiences with racing were in Wisconsin on the local tracks. He took the track championship in 1979 and 1980. Alan began his career in Winston Cup in late 1985. He began his first full season in 1986, winning the title of Rookie Of the Year. The conditions that Alan raced under, most wouldn't even consider. His team consisted of two cars, two engines and two crew members.
His beliefs were simple. He believed that even under adversity, if you work hard, and believe in yourself, that any goal was attainable. And even under circumstances, that in the minds of most, were next to impossible to achieve success, Alan was able to pull it off. He is a shining example of the American dream, which may be one of the many reasons he is still so fondly remembered today. He did things his own way, and in his own time. And it worked out beautifully, for him, and for the fans of this sport.
Alan soon became a fan favorite. His number 7 Hooters Ford became popular with the masses very quickly. He had found his position in the top series of his trade. He was never bothered by the idea of doing public appearances, but rather enjoyed them. He realized that the chance to live out a dream is a goal, which is rarely attained, and took the opportunity to show thanks to those whom he felt were responsible for helping him reach the success he had found. He was loyal to the fans, sponsors, and his fellow competitors.
In 8 short years racing on the Winston Cup Circuit, Alan accomplished what many before and after him have spent their entire lives searching for. He posted 5 wins, 38 top 5's, 75 top 10's and 24 poles. Everyone on the circuit seemed to enjoy his presence. He was a success story, who started an empire from the ground up, solidly built by blood, sweat, tears, and a determination to be the best he could possibly be.
The highlight of his short but illustrious career came in 1992, when he won the Winston Cup Championship. A feat he had hungered for his entire life. He was locked in a tight points battle with Bill Elliott, but managed to sweep the championship by 10 points when all had been said and done. It was the closest finish in Winston Cup history.
In 1993, Alan was inducted in Charlotte Motor Speedway's Court of Legends. And in 1997 he was inducted in Bristol Motor Speedway's Heroes of Bristol Hall of Fame. These actions alone are enough to show everyone the impact that Alan had on the lives of everyone involved with the sport. It is so unfortunate that he wasn't able to witness these events for himself.
For a man of his time, his accomplishments are something that many will continue to look back upon in awe. He found success under his own rules, which nowadays, does not happen in this sport. He proved to himself, and to the world, that he had what it took to make it work. He served as a mentor, an inspiration, and an all around friend to so many people. His spot is forever etched in Motorsports History. Gone, but not forgotten, Alan Kulwicki was one of a kind, one of the last true independents. His presence in NASCAR, even today, is sorely missed, and always will be.
(Thank you, Lori)