raceannouncer
Moderator
John Force has nothing left to prove, but you know he will try!
During the NHRA Virginia Nationals on Sunday (6/23/2024). The 75-year-old Force was involved in a fiery crash at over 300 mph and was immediately taken to the trauma intensive care unit at Virginia Hospital. Four days later, he was moved to the neuro intensive care unit, where doctors are focusing on healing his head injury.
I first met and interviewed John Force at Lancaster Dragway during the initial Fuel Funny Car Match Race conceived by the late Wall of Fame member and promoter Alex Friessen. Undoubtedly, the biggest and most attended drag racing event ever held at the facility, it created a series of NHRA Funny Car drivers who accepted the invite to race at the Buffalo-area 1/8 mile track. Once I earned a spot on the NHRA National Event announcing team, he always made sure he took the time for my interviews. It was very easy to interview the legendary driver. Just ask one great question, stick a microphone in front of his face; he would take it from there There's not enough space here to share all the John Force stories I might remember. But one does stand out: during a rain delay at Memphis, he even invited me to take cover in his pits to stay out of the wet. While under the canopy, he handed me a Mac Tools collectors' edition "mini-toolbox...complete with a diecast car he autographed just for me (I still have it!). His career numbers currently showcase a staggering 157 National Event wins and 16 Championship Titles. It may be a long time (if ever!) before anyone can approach those numbers! Many believe #17 was well within reach at the end of the current season.
As a stroke survivor,(with significant brain damage myself) It is only my humble opinion, that it's time for him to hang up the helmet. He has absolutely nothing left to prove! His legacy is secure! However, going out while on top (on your terms) is very difficult to do for any accomplished sports personality! But, Force has built a team that fields a Top Fuel dragster for his daughter, Brittany, who has followed in her Dad's footsteps, knocking down two Championship titles of her own AND three Funny Car teams: himself and another for 3x Campion, Robert Hght (Current national record holder for speed and elapsed time) and another for third-generation standout, Austin Prock. Even if he isn't cleared to race again, his stubborn "no quit" attitude isn't his in DNA. We're praying for ya, Champ!!! Hope to see you at a track one day--(AND SOON!)
Last edited: