About

Website counter

Monday 10 June 2013

Race Marshalls: A Thank You

On the evening after the Canadian Grand Prix, the world was made aware of a shocking incident. One of the Marshal's who was helping to recover Esteban's car from the side of the track was hit by the recovery vehicle. It was said that he dropped his radio and as he bent over to pick it up he stumbled.
 This is a terrible accident and one that has shocked the world but also made us aware of how much the Marshall's truly give for us.

Every weekend, weather it be at a small Hill Climb event, a NASCAR race in America or Formula One, race marshall's are in the thick of the action. Keeping the drivers and fans safe and clearing up any debris or accidents in a very short amount of time. They risk their lives week after week so some of the best drivers in series all over the world can compete and entertain the fans. Without them, there simply would not be any Motorsport and they frankly do not get enough recognition for the blood sweat and tears they put in to making events such as the Canadian Grand Prix possible.

After the race a few drivers tweeted out their respect including second place finisher Fernando Alonso: “Today there is nothing to celebrate. Terrible news arrive with the death of a marshal this race. Very sad. R.I.P.”
    
 When I commentated on the BARC Finals at Thruxton, I sat in the restaurant area among them. All in their bright orange jackets on top of the world and excited for another fantastic day of Motorsport. It was a fantastic feeling and I wasn't even marshalling. But just to feel their excitement and passion for Motorsport was something surreal.

On behalf of everyone who is involved with or simply loves racing, I send my condolences and all of my thoughts to the friends and family of that brave Marshall and a thank you to every single person who travels to a circuit every weekend to Marshall. Getting up at ridiculous times in all weathers making sure that the racing goes on and coming home late after making sure the track is in perfect condition, exhausted, drained and filled with adrenaline.

Yesterday was a very sad day in Motorsport, and one which will remain in the memories of fans, drivers and marshalls alike for a long time.

Rest In Peace

0 comments:

Post a Comment