This is sadly the risk of racing…
Billionaire James Crown died on June 25 in a racing accident at Aspen Motorsports Park in Woody Creek, Colorado. He apparently was there celebrating his 70th birthday, which was on the 25th. In a way, it’s a fitting thing as a gearhead to die behind the wheel on a track.
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According to reports, Crown was involved in a single-vehicle crash. His car hit the impact barrier and sustained damages which led to his fatal injuries. Local officials are reportedly investigating the incident, but it doesn’t appear foul play was a factor.
“The Crown family is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Jim Crown,” a family representative said in a statement to media. “The family requests that their privacy be respected at this difficult time.”
Having held many high-ranking positions at corporations like JPMorgan Chase, Crown has been considered a pillar of the business community in the United States. News of his death spread quickly and shocked many. He lived in Chicago but reportedly would go to Colorado often, so we’re assuming he was familiar with the track.
Everyone who spends any time behind the wheel of a car on a track, any kind of track, should understand that they’re taking a risk. While it’s true you’re putting your life on the line just by driving to the store or even taking a shower, things can really go sideways on a racetrack since you’re pushing the envelope.
This fact that everyone who races should understand the risks doesn’t make tragedies like this any less shocking. However, they shouldn’t prevent everyone who has been enjoying racing continue to do so. If everyone spent their lives avoiding any risk, many important, even vital, things would never come about. So go racing, but remember your training and be smart.
Image via Aspen Motorsports Park
