09/04/2026
As I watch this and relive it in normal speed and slow motion, I reflect on that evening.
I was in the pit stands. From there, I could not see turn two. I saw Briggs bike entering turn one. I know that while that may make for neat photos (and video footage), it is not desirable in general. I also know that Briggs can usually settle a car and continue racing. Then the caution came out, but not for Briggs, so I thought he would be fine. Almost instantaneously, I hear and see glimpses of a car flipping in the middle of turn one and two. I wasn't sure it was Briggs until someone next to me in the pit stands said Danner flipped. With that (and this is where I get a little choked up), so many crew members from different teams left the pit stands and ran down to the fence to see what damage had been done and if there was anything they could do to help the 39 crew get Briggs back on the track. Of course, there was no hope of Briggs continuing that night. I never did get to thank those guys, so thank you.
My heart ached for the 39 Team. What was looking like a great night (timed 6th, won the heat...) just wasn't meant to be. I am grateful for friends, the band, the music, the flying beach balls, everyone who chatted with me, the Smackdown vibe to help turn my frown upside down. This mama says thank you!
And thank you for this footage, Reflex Race Productions.
#39 Briggs DannerKokomo SpeedwayUSAC National Sprint CarsKokomo ...
