Harris, NC – Richard won Saturday night and everyone was happy for him. His name wasn’t Jeff, Jacob, Nick, or Steve…the names that have dominated the Carolina Sprint Tour since its inception.
Very generic names.
The fans of Harris Speedway, a dirt track in the foothills of Carolina, showed their typical appreciation toward the victorious winged warrior as our flagman in the white suit went crazy toward the upset most other didn’t know about.
It was the typical race you would find at a smooth, hammer down, balls-to-the-you-know-what, win it or wear it, pray to Jesus and our Lord and Savior nothing horrible happens…. type of event.
Sitting in the stands as the checkers flew, I didn’t care about Richard. I didn’t even know the guy, and I raced against him for a few years.
I was trying to figure out how I was going to explain to the brother my reasoning behind the setup choices I made and promise I’ll never let it happen again, if he agrees to give me a ride home tonight.
With my head in hands atop the grandstands looking over a crystal creek in the moonlight behind the front stretch wondering everything I did wrong, I glanced toward my sides to notice fans weren’t leaving.
Apparently, they appreciate winners and the stories they tell in victory lane.
Needing to make my way back toward the pits to answer questions I didn’t have answers to, I was surrounded by immoveable folks fascinated by the words coming across the speaker system.
With a fogged mind toward our next race at Fayetteville, I could have sworn the winner just announced this was his first feature win ever. He’s been racing forever, hasn’t he? I thought he was a modified guy from up North, etc etc.
Either way, the tears of victory in victory lane spread throughout the entire dirt track racing family. Fans stopped walking toward the exit and started standing in a moment they could enjoy and appreciate. Competitors looked on either pissed or inspirate by the situation.
No matter the situation, a man over an age limit hopefully inspired thousands in attendance that life can be badass if you are willing to never let up and go for it.
I haven’t written a story in a while and I use to love writing stories of our sport. Either my inspiration has been lacking or I haven’t had a great story to tell.
The story of Richard Wisdo needs to be told. From his words, he’s a 63 year old man whose greatest accomplish prior was a 3rd in modifieds somewhere up north.
Saturday night, he beat one of the best 305 drivers in the country.
I asked others what they knew of him.
All I got was that he was quiet and kept to himself. He might be a bartender… We aren’t sure.
All we know right now, he’s the guy to beat.
Brandon McLain
United Sprint Car Series Driver
2014 Season
National Rookie of the Year!
National Points - 8th
Southern Points - 3rd
Asphalt Points - 3rd
18 Races, 3 Top 5's, 14 Top 10's
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