Big screen legend, Paul Newman has passed away at 83 years of age.
While the general public will remember Newman’s acting talents, many will remember another side of him. The Racer. With success on track as a driver and off track as a team owner, Newman had a passion for life and racing that stayed with him till the end. As recently as this past summer, he visited Lime Rock Park to take his last turn behind the wheel of a race car.
We have lost a shining star.
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We knew it was coming, but still sad. I’m glad he got some seat time in his favourite cars on track before he passed.
As a writer, I still find it difficult to convey my feelings in times of sadness.
I’m pleased that our new friend, Mike Spinelli over at Jalopnik has put together what I consider the best piece of his that I’ve read in tribute to ole blue eyes.
Nicely written Mike.
A great man and one heck of a race driver. I only saw him drive live a couple of times. The first was at West Palm Beach (Moroso) in a Datsun 510 out of the Jim Fitzgerald stable in the early 70’s. Above the driver’s door was PLN. That was it. It was a while before he was recognized and word spread like wildfire.
We used to go to WPB to test our new FA car before the pro season started and usually stayed for a SCCA race.
I wish I had seen him drive. I feel fortunate to have had a small exchange with him when I shot the above photo.
I pointed to my camera to sort of ask permission before I shot some photos. Paul smiled and nodded and continued on with his conversation. I mouthed “thank you” when I was done and he waved.
He seemed like a very gracious guy in the way he dealt with others.