When news of the Virginia Tech shootings rocked the country yesterday, concerned sentiment instantly rippled through a large segment of NASCAR fanbase.
Ashley Speegle, the former girlfriend of NASCAR heartthrob Kasey Kahne, was immediately on the minds of those who religiously follow the comings and goings of the drivers' wives and girlfriends.
On Monday afternoon, I was able to reach Speegle, currently a junior in the university's liberal arts and human sciences college, via email and confirm her safety:
"I appreciate everyone's concern. I am safe, as are all of my very close friends. They still haven't sent out any sort of list of the ones killed/hurt in the shootings, but as you can imagine we are all anxiously waiting. This is just scary beyond belief for everyone here... just praying for now for everyone and just sitting tight. Thanks again for your concern."
Even though it's been well over a year since Kahne and Speegle broke up, I wasn't surprised at all by the outpouring of concern from NASCAR fans--nor am I astonished by the sympathies being expressed in the Fanhouse by all sports fans.
A tragedy like this shatters the emotions of the entire country, not just those who attend or have students at VT or on other college campuses. Making a personal connection helps to hasten the healing process.
Fans looking for first hand account from campus should check out blogger Fanhouse blogger Nick Dallamora, a VT student who is blogging through Hokie eyes:
Through Hokie Eyes: The Day After at Virginia Tech
The Virginia Tech Massacre Through Hokie Eyes
I join other Fanhouse bloggers and readers in extending my own condolences and offer prayers to the families of slain students.
It is a sad day indeed. And on this sad day I am proud to be a sports fan.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
4-17-2007 @ 7:35PM
Prakash kashwan said...
In the face of this terrible tragedy Va. Tech Community has demonstrated commendable strength and solidarity. In the time crises, when stereotypes are reinforced and blame games could have gone unabated, Blacksburg community came together a message of peace and unity. Representatives from every faith in the community- Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, and others came together in an admirable show of unity. They made best of the worst times to show how we could all come together to confront terrorism, violence, and unprovoked acts of aggression. May God rest the souls of the departed in peace and strengthen the resolve of their friends, family, and colleagues in facing up to the menace of intolerance around the world.
Sincerely,
Prakash Kashwan
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