I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to address something that has been weighing heavily on my mind since the passing of my father, Jerry Gappens.
As you know, Jerry was not only a dedicated general manager of Eldora Speedway but also the very backbone of the company for many years. His commitment to the track and its community was unwavering, and his legacy is deeply embedded in the culture and success of Eldora. His passion for the sport and his visionary approach played a crucial role in shaping Eldora into the renowned venue it is today.
However, it has become apparent that since his passing, there has been a noticeable lack of concern or support from many quarters. This situation has been compounded by the fact that my father’s approach and perspectives were often seen as unorthodox by some within the industry. The bias and resistance he faced during his tenure were not uncommon, especially given his strong stance on innovation and change, which at times clashed with traditional views.
It’s important to recognize that while Jerry’s methods and ideas might have been unconventional, they were driven by a sincere commitment to the growth and betterment of Eldora. His strategies and decisions, though sometimes controversial, were always made with the best interests of the track and its fans at heart. The resistance he faced was often a reflection of the challenge that comes with pioneering new paths and ideas.
The void left by Jerry’s departure is significant, and it’s crucial that we honor his legacy by ensuring that the values he championed continue to influence the direction of Eldora Speedway. His dedication to excellence, his respect for the sport, and his unwavering support for the people involved are qualities that should remain at the core of our operations.
I hope we can find a way to acknowledge the profound impact Jerry had on Eldora and ensure that his contributions are not overshadowed by the challenges and biases of the past. It’s essential that his memory be honored through the continued growth and success of the track he loved so dearly.