Drag racing pays respects and supports the Kalitta family

In case you missed watching the the 2nd annual Summit Racing Equipment NHRA Nationals in Norwalk, Ohio, ESPN2 will re-air the race on July 4th from 3:00:00 AM - 5:00:00 AM ET. The outpouring of support for Scott Kalitta's family was amazing. From the memorial decals on the cars and the black stripe across the car numbers, to the emotional interviews with drivers, the warmth and sincerity of the drag racing community came together in an amazing way. Several winning drivers are donating their Norwalk Wallys (event trophys) to Scott Kalitta's children.

Updated July 2, 2008

Kalitta Racing has asked the public for patience as they make arrangements for online sales of the official Scott Kalitta tribute decal.

Kalitta Racing has announced that the official Scott Kalitta tribute decal and t-shirt are now available for purchase through their website.

David Goricki of the The Detroit News captured some of the tributes in his article:

On Saturday, fans were able to write down their feelings on a large banner left in front of the Kalitta pit. Kevin Knapp of Wellington, Ohio, has taken his son, Kyle, to watch drag racing for more than 20 years. They paid respects to Scott by signing the banner before qualifying started.

"Drag racing is an awesome sport," said Kyle, 27. "I feel bad for them. Connie Kalitta is one of the pioneers of Top Fuel.

"I stopped Scott when he was here four years ago and told him...

You can read the rest of David Goricki's article at the Detroit News