News-Record.com

I can personally attest to the humility of Paul Newman after a chance encounter 12 years ago at Charlotte Motor Speedway (now Lowe’s Motor Speedway). I was at the track for a practice session as I started racing Legends cars that year and was in the “drivers’ lounge” inside the track. I was getting into my driver’s suit when the lounge door opened and in stepped a very familiar face. My shock must have been quite apparent as he strode over to me with his hand out and said, “Hi, I’m Paul Newman,” as if I never would have known without him saying so.

I recovered as I shook his hand and introduced myself. We chatted briefly about him being there to practice in his new Legends Car. We ran some laps together and it soon became apparent that he was a skilled race car driver as well as a great actor.

I was saddened by his passing and grateful for having seen the racer side of him for those few moments that day.

Jay Moore
Jamestown