Anticipation and Elation (Racer's Reunion Memory Lane HOF)
Unique Hiram
Tuesday October 13 2009, 2:48 AM
The Racers Reunion Memory Lane Hall of Fame event was like the rhythm to a perfect rhyme, metaphoric words captured in a symbolic poem and sweet potato pie on Thanksgiving Day. It indeed was a great time that was experienced at this phenomenal event.The Racers Reunion Memory Lane Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony honored some of the racing industrys pioneers and trendsetters. This intimate gathering exhibited the classiness and awe of the Presidential Inaugural Ball. Even though that comparison might seem overwhelming to some it was definitely a condensed version that packed a HUGE impact!The 2009 HOF Inductees included these outstanding individuals: Dink Widenhouse, Buddy Arrington, Sam Ard, Dave Marcis, Paul Lewis, Neil Castles, Paul Goldsmith, Marvin Panch, Jake Elder, James Hylton, Wendell Scott, Elmo Langley, Herman Beam, G.C. Spencer and Gene Glover.I will have to admit that I had been anticipating the arrival of October 10, 2009 for quite a few weeks and was ecstatic as the weekend finally arrived. I was definitely elated that I got to participate in this dynamic history making moment with my newfound family members.Never in my life would I have thought that I would be granted the opportunity to be in the presence of some of these iconic sports figures. My 19-year old son Malcolm was very impressed and happy that he had the opportunity to attend this groundbreaking event with me.First, it was great to eat a dynamic breakfast @ Bob Evans sitting across from Bobby Allison and next to Wendell Scotts family. After that, we headed over to the Memory Lane Museum and were greeted by some terrific folks that made you feel at home.Once the lights were dimmed and the ceremony began, your attention was captured by that beautiful Hall of Fame wall which so eloquently showcased the outstanding artistic work, completed by Michael W. Smith, of each inductee. Ned Jarrett and Bobby Allison did wonderful jobs serving as the Masters of Ceremonies. Additionally, it was a treat to hear the inductees/representatives speak and share some great stories.It was truly an event that will go down in history due to the labor of love and passion exhibited by all of those individuals who contributed in so many ways. You can guarantee that I will be spreading the word about Racers Reunion and the Memory Lane Museum while I am overseas serving this great nation.Thank you to the Racers Reunion Founders, Alex Beam, Safety Solutions, and the other great sponsors. Greg Biffle, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and David Ragan a special thank you for caring about the history of racing and its pioneers. Jeff Gilder you are the MAN!Until next timeStrap In and Gear Up For A Thrillin Ride
Jeff Gilder
@jeff-gilder   15 years ago
Thank you, Unique! You sure have a "way with words"!
Mike Sykes
@mike-sykes   15 years ago
Unigue you are a prime example of why all of the people that work so hard at RR. Just think last year you were just learning about racing and today you are a very important part of what is going on in the RR organization. Thank you for all the hard work you have done and continue to do and it was an honor to have you and your sons attend the HOF and Rockingham events.You are a special part of the RR family. I hope that someday we will be able to sit and talk one on one. Also thank you for your service to our country I had no idea.
Henry Jones
@henry-jones   15 years ago
I am so glad our group (AIRPS) had representation at this wonderful event.Thank you so much Leon Phillips!Jeff, your inner strength is driven by engines of past that you have experienced at places such as Occoneechee, Columbia and Augusta.It does not get any better than this!
Pete Banchoff
@pete-banchoff   15 years ago
As only Unique could tell it.Pete in Michigan