I used to post here under the handle 'The Chad' years and years ago. It's really refreshing to still see some the familiar names here and there.

I just wanted to stop in and say what a privilege we all had in following John over the years. Cheering for him was always so much fun. The highs were high and the lows just as low. But in the end, he was always a worthy hero.

I started following John in 2001. For whatever reason, 12 year old me picked him out in what was my first ever NASCAR race, the 2001 Daytona 500. I watched every lap he raced after that. I had the honor of meeting him several times over the years as I participated in the race for Riley.

After the Petty years, I used to love coming here hoping to get the inside info on where John could be going next. Those were exciting times, but still stinging with bitterness over his treatment by the Pettys.

I could go on and on, but I won't. I guess this is my way of saying goodbye. Life is full of loss, that's the way it goes. Doesn't make it pleasant. But the ride was sweet and it was a privilege to cheer for our guy along with you all.

Godspeed,

Chad