Dan, I remember that day as you climbed in your car.
My first IndyCar race, and you were the star.
33 cars gleamed on that bright sunny day,
As they took the green flag at the Indy Speedway.
The one common goal for all in the race,
Is to get the Borg Warner Trophy to bear their victorious face.
I watched you in second as the white flag came out;
Just four corners left, and I was beginning to doubt.
The rookie in first had drove a great race.
Throughout the final few laps, he set a blistering pace.
Going into turn four he was still driving fine,
When his car suddenly wiggled and dove out of line.
My jaw dropped as his car hit the wall,
I knew you were coming quickly, giving your all.
Coming off of turn four, the checkered flag flew.
The best sight in motor sports today belonged to you.

The Indy tradition of drinking milk after a win,
Was fine-tuned by you as you poured it on your head with a victorious grin.
Everybody in Victory Lane was elated;
All of them celebrating the historic moments you just created.
Nothing could ever prepare me for the news I got on a dark October afternoon.
On October 16, just five months later, I found out one of my racing heroes was gone way too soon.
Well Dan, I will never forget that historic Indy 500 in May of two thousand eleven.
And now Dan I hope that racing’s all good in heaven.