“I was put here to make others happy. I believed in myself so others could.” Dubba G
On February 12, 2007, the USLMRA racing community lost another dear friend, Garrett Gray, “Dubba G.” of Duncanville, Texas. DG knew he was going to pass away. Indeed, he allowed me to share the news with the racing community prior to his passing, which I did. The warm wishes and personal missives were shared with him and they meant so very much.
In the final months before his passing, we spoke often. Dubba and I decided that he, himself would choose his legacy in his own way, in his own words.
Dubba G and his trusty steed, Geronimow, were known across the land. TNN, The Dallas Morning News, Sports Illustrated, newspapers here and there – the names Dubba G and Geronimow are known from Mandan, North Dakota to Avon Park, Florida; from Duncanville, Texas to Wisborough Green, England.
Dubba G was the perfect “Racer Liaison” and problem solver. He could talk to anyone; solve problems, so we made him a staff member. Dubba loved the gift of gab, so we made him a race announcer. Dubba loved to eat, so we had him cook the steaks after the races. Dubba G loved to socialize, so we made him Chief Gadfly. What a great guy.
Therefore, today on April Fool’s Day, I’m proud to share the following words from Dubba G to announce the creation of the annual Dubba G Everyman Award. Why “Everyman?” Because Garrett Gray was every man: a good, solid family man, a hard worker in his day jobs, a middle-of-the-pack racer, highly MOWtivated for lawn mower racing, and a guy who “found his people.”
From Dubba G
Let’s get started.
1. We are looking for people with dedication, integrity and conviction to stand up for what they believe, even when unpopular. Examples; The Witt’s, Brother Bob Frennesson, Bob Stormer in some cases (actually, I think he may have fit this part of it more then we guessed.)???!!
2. The candidate will carry a positive disposition. Obviously, game face before the race doesn’t count. Examples: The Witt’s, Big Tim Robison, Dave Hertel.
3. Actions on the track, including driving style, will show gentlemanly demeanor. Not necessarily always deferring to other drivers, but not creating unsafe situations. Their competitive spirit needs to be tempered with a “spirit of a sound mind”. Intentionally running people off the track, running into or bumping and/or ignoring Safety Crew repeated will disqualify a candidate.
4. Candidates are willing to help others. When times of need arise, sacrifice is not uncommon, willing to volunteer, add a hand, step up to the plate. Examples:
Dave Hertel, Joe Gillians, Kerry Evans, Dink and Mavis Strunk.
5. Enthusiasm is key. They want to be here, at the race, in the paddock, at the driver’s meeting, their excitement will help the group’s positive energy grow and surge just by their presence. Examples: Dink Strunk, The Witt’s, Michael Bonville. Similar to #2, but more encompassing. People like being around the candidate or at least don’t mind their presence.
6. General knowledge of what’s going on race day, race track, in the paddock, in general. This would imply that first month rookies may not fully qualify, but depending on their learning curve, they could be in the running. This doesn’t mean they have to know everything, but a good solid understanding of how things work is the basic idea.
7. Most important, at least to me, is their Sense of Fair Play. We have all seen racers over the years that possess some or a few of these qualities, but when bump comes to shove, this particular attribute gets left behind or thrown out the window, depending on the situation. This applies on the track, negotiations during the rules committee, arguments about rules infractions and who gets the last beer after the race.
8. Comes prepared to help. Spare parts, rope to hang clothes, share knowledge, extra mower to run on race day in order to keep accumulating points for the season. Having made preparations to help others in advance, knowing someone will need something. #4 shows the willingness, #8 exhibits the forethought to add extra supplies, etc.
9. One of the traditions I enjoyed most was having a steak and a beer (or mower) after the race. I know most people want to run home. But there is always a few that will stick around or meet you on the way to the airport. This one is a bit hard to wrap your arms around, but I think this is part of the mix.
10. I always preferred plaques. Trophies can be hard to store, but there’s always room for a plaque. A lot less dusting along with less space used.
This should give you an idea of what I have been thinking.
DG
The Dubba G Everyman Award will be presented to one USLMRA Member based on the above criteria.
USLMRA members and staff can submit an essay, in writing, nominating a candidate who is deserving of this honor. Essays can be submitted in any written format, and must be submitted to Bruce Kaufman, USLMRA President. All entries submitted by the start of the annual USLMRA Awards Banquet on the Saturday night of Labor Day Weekend will be considered.
The USLMRA President will select the Honoree. The Honoree will be announced at the Saturday Night Racer Banquet during STA-BIL Nationals Weekend. The winning essay will be read by the USLMRA President. The Nominator and/or the actual Honoree does not have to be present at STA-BIL Nationals Weekend
May the spirits of Dave Hertel, Charles Powell….and Dubba G live on.
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