The city and many area funeral homes are collecting signatures and messages from fans in books to be forwarded to the family. Meanwhile, racing officials pushed forward with plans for this weekend's race in Rockingham, where Dale Earnhardt Jr. confirms he plans to participate. Wheeler said he's not sure yet what impact the tragedy will have on fans' interest in racing. Rockingham is probably going to have the biggest crowd they've had in a long time, and that will be more in memory of Dale. Fans want to reach out and it's important to give them closure.
People like to say that the only reason fans came to the races was to see people get hurt.
But we went a long time without people getting hurt, and the crowds just kept growing. I think death is a real negative thing for the sport. But it's hard to say what impact it will have on people's interest. Staff writer Ken Garfield and the Associated Press contributed to this article. 600 S. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.