by Bill Green

Two years ago today I saw a bright sunrise. There was a nip in the air, that hint of another winter on the way. I remember going to the studio early, cause on that Saturday the radio show was still 1-3 in the afternoon, before the gates to the speedway opened. If you go back to that day on our Internet hookup, you can hear the conversations filled with hope for a great seasons finish. You hear some already looking forward to the next year in anticipation of greater things to come.

As we prepared for the second and final leg of "The Battle of the Tracks," even I felt the future was bright with possibilities. Eastbay and Sunshine were working together. Street Stocks from the asphalt and dirt were meeting one another and making new friends. What a wonderful thing was happening in racing. Remember? Mike Hinegardner, Scott Charles, and Ed Kidd were representing Sunshine, we were proud and excited as the night started. Then "The Battle of the Tracks" was on.

At Eastbay we had seen the Sunshine boys hold there own, but the dirt drivers were ready on their day and showed us the way. Now it was our turn. We lined up on the out side row, and when we were done, Sunshine held the trophy high by only one point, what a great time in racing.

What a friendly exhibition of competition. I was probably never happier or prouder of myself and my Short Track USA crew, than at that moment. That moment when that trophy was held high atop the winning car, not for Sunshine's Win, but for the door we had opened in the future of local racing. The possibilities were endless, but little did I know, how tightly that door would be softly closed before the night was over.

James did not mean it, Bill did not see it coming till the last few feet, but when it was over an angel had left Sunshine, and with it went more than just a friend of yours and mine. Along it's side went a thousand shattered dreams and million broken hearts.

"Wild" Bill is still missed. Missed by my heart and all the hearts he touched in his short life. That night local racing stopped turning. Every person in the stands that night can still tell you exactly where they sat. Every child saw the adult tears. Every mother came face to face with her worst fears.

By now you would think the hurting would have stopped. But here I sit with a face full of tears, remembering my friend and the lesson that he taught us. That to live life, you must live it. Not hold anything back for another day, but live it to it's fullest, everyday. But most of all, to always enjoy the company friends and family when you can. They may not always be able to stay by your side. You have to keep them in your heart.

God Bless "Wild" Bill Revard, and we think you for your inspiration to help others enjoy life, as you enjoyed yours!

-Bill Green

Have an opinion on this story? Post a message on our Message Board!
or send a letter to the editor!