Top Fuel Driver Killed In Qualifying

By Adam Ruggiero
Love of Sports Correspondent

Two-time Top Fuel champion Scott Kalitta was killed Saturday at the Lucas Oil NHRA SuperNationals at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in Englishtown, New Jersey.

During a qualifying race, Kalitta’s Toyota Solara funny car burst into flames as he crossed the finish line at speeds better than 300 mph and slammed the wall at the end of the quarter-mile drag strip.

Kalitta began his career in 1982 at the very track where his life was lost. Twice retired, Kalitta’s love of racing, and perhaps his family ties to it – both his father, Connie Kalitta, and cousin, Doug Kalitta – brought him back to asphalt speed strips.

Drivers’ families, friends and fans flock to races to see speed and daring, all the while acknowledging the very real danger inherent to the sport of racing – be it oval, road or drag.

Regardless of its appeal or acceptance, racing is a very real part of American culture. Its icons enjoy great rewards and often do more than they’re given credit for in giving back to charities and other under-reported causes. They take pride in their profession, often because their pedigree lent them exceptional abilities and opportunities. More than that, though, they share a passion for a pastime whose following is fervent, often crossing the borders of fandom into the realm of family.

Scott Kalitta was 46. He will be survived by wife, Kathy; sons, Corey and Colin; and fans throughout auto racing.