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(Photo courtesy H2H photo)
Peter Murphy Finishes 4th at the Dirt Cup with Heavy Heart
By Gary Costa
Alger, WA (June 18, 2009) – Just hours before climbing into the cockpit of the Anderson / Curtis No. 18 Sprint Car for night one of the Dirt Cup, Peter Murphy received news that good friend, Brian Healey passed away.
A determination had to be made whether the veteran driver would race in the event or park the car for the night. Without hesitation, Murphy chose the latter and put on a driving clinic for those in attendance at Skagit Speedway with Brian watching from the heavens.
"The thought did cross my mind for a brief second, but if Brian knew I wasn't going to race, he would've let me have it," Murphy said. "I met Brian in 1985 when the Kinser's would come to Australia, and he's been a close mate of mine ever since."
Murphy's night started with him qualifying in the tenth spot turning 11.737. In the fifth heat race Murphy finished fourth, relegating him to the B-Main event as only three cars transferred into the A-Main. Murphy went onto claim second in the event.
Murphy slid into his mount into the 17th position, tightened the belts for one last time, and when the green flag flew he was on a mission. He started picking off cars as he was driving his heart out for his fallen friend. Murphy eventually carved his way up to fourth, where he would eventually finish at.
"I drove as hard as I could for Brian. I really wanted to win this race and dedicate it to him," Murphy said. "He was such a huge part of my life and who I am today; I owe so much to him. Under the yellows, I would start to think about him and I would gather up more strength to race harder."
With Murphy's fourth place finish, he currently sits third in the points heading into tonight's race.
All of us from Peter Murphy Racing send out our heartfelt condolences to Brian's family and all of his friends. "I'm going to miss you mate, but I'll never forget you…..ever!"
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