I genuinely hate that lately I have only been inspired to write in the wake of the death of someone within the sport. I realize that it's just part of growing older — people I have known for years will start to pass on. But that doesn’t make it any easier. Just last week we lost the great Evans, Ga., racer Ed Basey, and then a few days later my old buddy Jeff Walker of McMinnville, Tenn.

I remember the very first time I ever met Jeff Walker. In my earliest days working for the Southern All MORE

My brother, the Zamboni driver

In December, during our 12-hour trek (which turned into 16 because of traffic jams and rerouting) back home from the Gateway Dirt Nationals, I was again reminded the power of laughter and comfort of fellowship.

And of course, along the way we added another story or six to the archive that we have built over the last 25 or so years together.

I always fly into St. Louis, Mo., a few days earlier than my crew guys. They finish up their work week at home and then jump in a MORE

OK, I get it now. I felt it. It being the feeling of falling in love with a town, a speedway and an event. Last month I made the 11-hour drive to Fairbury, Ill., to attend the Prairie Dirt Classic. DirtonDirt.com co-founder Michael Rigsby has been after me for some time now to come and experience the event. In recent years, I have developed a close friendship with Fairbury co-owner and promoter Matt Curl through working together at both the Gateway Dirt Nationals and the Wild West Shootout. Matt MORE