NHRA driver Eric Medlen died Friday, five days after sustaining a severe head injury in a crash during a test session at Gainesville Raceway in Florida.The 33-year-old from Oakdale, who drove for John Force Racing, never regained consciousness after crashing his Funny Car into a guardrail on Monday at the Florida track.

This is a sad day for drag racing. If you follow the NHRA, I am sure you already heard about it.

But, last month, I had the chance to have breakfast with Eric. This was one of those setup breakfasts that the drivers do before a race to interact with their fans.
He took the time to not only answer our questions, but to pose for any photos and stay as long as he needed, so we all got a chance to talk to him.

Like many drivers Eric Medlen always had time for a fan. Whether it be a young child or a veteran fan, he always made the time.
He will be sorely missed. He definetly was one of the “good guys” that make the NHRA and drag racing a special sport.

“Eric Medlen was the son I never had,” said team owner John Force. “He was the leader of my next generation of drivers.”

You can read more about Eric at NHRA.COM’s special section.

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