Wheldon's widow gets trophy ring
2012-05-25 13:59
HAPPIER TIMES: The Wheldon family before Dan's tragic death at the Las Vegas Speedway in October, 2011. The ring (inset) that Dan earned for his victory in the 2011 Indy 500.
INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana - Susie Wheldon, widow of Indy driver Dan Wheldon, has been presented with the "Champion of Champions" ring that her late husband earned for his 2011 Indianapolis 500 triumph.
She said after the presentation at the Indianapolis circuit: "I thank everybody for the outpouring of love and support over the past several months for me and my family. Everybody from Indianapolis, around the country and the world, my racing family and Dan's fans.
"It has been so comforting to have the support of so many during such a difficult time."
'LOVED THE SPEEDWAY'
British driver Wheldon died on October 16, 2011 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway in a 15-car crash that catapulted his car through the air and into a fence.
Five months earlier, in May of 2011, he won the Indianapolis 500 for the second time. He triumphed in dramatic style, taking the lead for the first time on the final straight. He also won at the Brickyard in 2005.
"Dan loved the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and what it meant to win here," Susie recalled. "I am proud to be here to represent him as a two-time winner."
With her were the couple's young sons, Sebastian and Oliver.
The 96th Indianapolis 500 will be held on Sunday, May 27, on the four-kilometre oval.
Below is a review of the horrific race in which it is amazing that only one person was killed. It is graphic.
