I took a walk down the Atlanta Dragway return road early this morning, just wanting to get my feelings straight before the day began. It was quiet, but for a lone crew chief walking the track in the opposite direction — possibly doing what he always did on Sunday morning, but maybe he was doing the same thing I was.

Today is a DAY, after all. It’s the last raceday for NHRA at this venerable racetrack, and that’s a lot to digest.

As I walked, I thought about all of the racecars that have gone down this track for the past four decades and the drivers inside of those cars who were living an incredible dream while grabbing a little piece of drag racing history. Having raced here will always be part of their respective stories.

I stopped near the scoreboards with my coffee, looking at the finish line and thinking about the anguish and exhilaration that had been ignited right there, just a few feet from where I stood. I saw the scuff marks on the walls where some not so nice memories were made.

I felt it all, and I’m so grateful for the days I’ve spent here covering this sport that I love with all of my heart. I’m grateful to be here today. Thank you, Atlanta Dragway. We’ll never forget you.

Alright friends, let’s go racing. See you out there.