From Chris Dolack
CONCORD, N.C. – Aug. 30, 2011 – The World Racing Group, World of Outlaws and DIRTcar Racing are saddened to learn of Jerry Reigle’s passing today.
An outstanding motorsports journalist with a love for Sprint Car racing, Jerry, 43, had the respect of everybody at World Racing Group for his professional reporting from his time at the Harrisburg Patriot-News to his position as Assistant Editor at Area Auto Racing News.
More than his columns and stories, Jerry was a great friend to many of us at World Racing Group. His opinions were valued, and his efforts to improve motorsports coverage, in particular the coverage of dirt track racing, were highly regarded through his work with the Eastern Motorsports Press Association.
We were first heartbroken and then inspired by his battle against cancer. Despite dire predictions, Jerry was upbeat and positive throughout his fight, never wavering from his stance that he would win. His appearances at our events were always appreciated as much for the stories he would write as for the stories we would share.
“Motorsports journalism lost one of its biggest supporters and contributors this morning in Jerry Reigle,” said Chris Dolack, WRG VP of Media/PR. “I was honored to have known him and call him a friend. I respected the way he worked and his unbiased reporting. He did things the right way and I can’t offer any higher praise than that. Even knowing him and his spirit, I was amazed how positive he remained while fighting cancer, and I’m glad he can now put down his pen and rest. He will be greatly missed.”
Details of a Celebration of Life for Jerry are being finalized. In lieu of flowers, contributions are requested to the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area, 7790 Grayson Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111 or the Eastern Museum of Motor Racing, PO Box 688, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055.