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.
