In the fall NFL reigns supreme on Sunday afternoons. But there was one event that took the headlines away from the sport of football. During the Las Vegas Indy 300, racer Dan Wheldon died moments into a crash.
Wheldon, a two-time Indianapolis 500 winner, was one of fifteen racers involved in the car crash. Having started at the back of the pack in thirty fourth position, Wheldon had shown frustration with his car’s performance in practice sessions in the preceding days leading up to the race.
With Dan Wheldon’s sudden passing a number of celebrities and entertainers took to Twitter to pay their respects.
Ashley Judd, married to racer Dario Franchitti, who competed in Sunday’s race:
As we continue to absorb Dan’s accident – we forget, remember, re-expeirence shock, denial, anger, pain – I’m reminded of a favorite poem: DEATH be not proud, though some have called thee Mighty and dreadfull, for, thou art not so, For, those, whom thou think’st,thou dost overthrow, Due not, poore death, nor yet canst thou kill me. From rest & sleepe, which but thy pictures be, Much pleasure thenfrom thee, much more must flow, And soonest our best men with thee doe goe, Rest of their bones, and soules deliverie.-One short sleepe past, wee wake eternally, And death shall be no more; death, thou shalt die. J Donne. Encourage all to read whole poem. Hardest parts, Thinking about Susie, Sebastian, Oliver. Seeing my husband grieve. Nights are so awful at first. Poor woman. Such pain.
Motley Crue co-founder Nikki Sixx:
R.I.P. Dan Wheldon… He always seemed to be more than just a winner.My condolence’s go out to his family!
Guitarist Slash:
Really tragic news about Indy Champ, Dan Wheldon today. RIP Dan.
Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan:
RIP Dan Wheldon who died racing today in Las Vegas. I got to meet and talk to Dan once, a lovely and cool guy. A terrible tragedy…
Miami Heat star LeBron James:
R.I.P to IndyCar Driver Dan Wheldon! Dies In 15-Car Crash At Las Vegas Race #tragedy. You’ll be missed from Sports
ESPN sportscaster and former Dancing With the Stars contestant Erin Andrews:
Very sorry to hear the news of Dan Wheldon..puts alot into perspective today..my heart hurts for his family
Professional soccer player and current Dancing With the Stars contestant Hope Solo:
My heart hurts deeply for Dan Wheldon and his family.An amazing individual who inspired me the moment we met.RIP Dan. Your legacy lives on.
