Give Ol' Morgan a Smile

I don't know how I even started reading this article, it's not like I make a regular habit of reading Nascar race recaps.  I guess it was because it was on Grantland, which is kind a mix of sports & pop culture, which makes me more apt to click on links.  Anyway, it took me back to my childhood, and memories I think I've shared with you in the past.

The story-within-the-story in this piece, about Morgan Shepherd becoming the oldest driver to compete in a Nascar race warmed my heart because in describing this old man (71!), Hickory Speedway is mentioned several times.  I can remember seeing this guy race at Hickory, I was Charlie's age, but my dad and I would go there every Saturday night, cooler with burgers wrapped in tin foil in hand, and take our seat in the bleachers near the entrance to turn one.  I think I learned to count in those bleachers; I knew every car, every number, & every driver. 

Some of the drivers there in the early '80s went on to be auto racing superstars.  Some of them were just locals that had a hobby.  But Morgan Shepherd was always memorable.  Every once in a while, it would rain, and they'd delay the race until they could get the track completely dry.  Morgan would put on roller skates and skate around the track to kill time.  One night, he came up in the stands, wearing his fireproof racing suit and sat down next to us.  The next think I know, he's putting me on his lap and saying "Come on up here and give ol' Morgan a smile."

Won't forget that night for as long as I live.