Bryan Clauson Memorial

Racing is an inherently dangerous sport. We all know that, fans and competitors alike.

But the competitors put that aside to chase their dreams and do what they love to do.

It doesn't make it any better when a driver is killed in action.

On Sunday, Bryan Clauson became the first driver in my card collection to be killed on track since I began Cardboard History. Justin Wilson was killed in a freak accident in an IndyCar race last year, but he has no cards.

Clauson was only 27 years old.

He was primarily an open wheel driver, focusing on sprints and midgets, but he ran for Nationwide Rookie of the Year in 2008, attempting 21 of 35 races and posting a best finish of 5th at Kentucky. That is what led to his appearing on cards. I have 7 of his cards in my collection, although 4 of them are this card and it's many parallels. This is the Gold parallel which was hobby exclusive. I also have the Silver (base), Blue (retail) and Red (factory set). I do not have the Holofoil serially numbered to 100. He also appears in 2008 Speedway, 2008 Stealth and 2009 Element in my collection.

Aside from his 26 career Nationwide appearances, he attempted 3 Cup races in 2008 but did not qualify for any of them, he also ran the Indy 500 three times, including this year. I do not have stats on the races he normally ran, but I do know his goal was to race in 200 races this year. His final race was #117 on his quest. For perspective, Cup races 36 times a year, Indy only 16 races a year.

It's always a sad day in the world of motorsports when one of the family is killed, and that is what is being felt today.

Rest in Peace.