Over 40 years ago I lost my son due to a sailing accident. Every time you talk about your loss, I get a tear in my eye. It's GOOD and reminds me that life is but a gift on loan, so live every day as if it may be your last. Thanks for sharing your story with us and keep stomping on the loud pedal.
Man that brings back memories. I had forgotten about the big burndown. Its amazing how tragedy will bring people together. Awesome video...honestly one of my favorites so far. Thank you !!
Tons of respect for both of you as fathers. What a history between two teams pushing cars to the limit. When you mentioned losing your son Dalton, it hit me hard. It brings all the memories of my 2 boys growing up, and all the things missed.
I lost my son Sept 27 2020. This video brought tears to my eyes UNFORTUNATELY I can relate to your pain brothers. All we can do is move forward and TREASURE the memories. That's why I have this profile pic. It's my favorite pic of him. And my first car I painted
Over the years I have kinda stepped away from the drag racing, but since meeting Clay and holding a conversation with him in I'm guessing around 2004, he is a constant for me. Outside of racing, he is still just one of my favorite humans. His positivity and authenticity are just above and beyond most. 💙
You’re a great story teller Clay, thank you to you and RWR and Doug, and all your great Spenser’s ! I love your passion. Fron a 60 + year drag veteran.
Thank you so much for all you do for the sport and fans. So So sorry for your loss, I lost my son 2 1/2 years old in 1993. I just watched you in St.louis 2022 Midwest Nationals, and always enjoy your smile and energy. May God bless you and your family and crew.
First of all sorry for both family's losses, I can't even imagine the pain. Second everyone could benefit from the story you just told. We tend to take things for granted and hold onto things that don't ultimately matter. Very touching testimony!
Well said Kevin,there's a video on you tube.Clay does an interview discussing the day he got that knock on door when he lost his son.It was gut wrenching,its always in the back of my mind.If you ever get a chance you need to go check him out in person.It amazing how he tames that 11,000 horsepower beast
Has it REALLY been 20 years since this now?? This will FOREVER be one of the greatest staging duels/burndowns in all of NHRA history! One of the most memorable ones for me that I remember and know of beside for examples, Warren Johnson vs Dave Connolly at Denver in 2005 and Warren Johnson vs the late Scott Geoffrion in Houston in 1994.
That broke my heart when your son died. He was not only an awesome monster truck driver, but a carbon copy of you when it came to displaying an upbeat, positive attitude if he won or lost.
I followed Clay a lot in the IHRA as well the NHRA. He is really a great guy. He is always smiling and a positive racer. He had a very long reign in the IHRA. VERY sad to hear about his son. Awesome program! I love to see these guys give back to the community. I wish them all the best that God has to offer!
Man... this was a great story. So sorry for the loss of both your sons. And letting bygones be bygones is a wise move for anyone who wants to live a joyful life.
I am very fortunate that I have worked with both Clay and Doug (I am a photographer for a Drag Illustrated Magazine) and I can tell you for first hand experience that both of them a total class acts! I actually had a chance to shoot Clay again yesterday (Sept 23rd) and he is always in a great mood. Just an overall really good Dude!
That's life! And after today's story of yet another...That's life! I am enriched...yet a little more today. Sharing your sons is a noble and, yet humbling thing to do. Thank you so much for sharing.
Clay- you are such a class act. Didn't know you lost a son. I remember the burn down and what a touching story about when Doug lost two sons. As a fellow father, I can't imagine the pain from that loss. Onward and upward. Hope to say hi to you in Dallas next month.
I met you at Martin Michigan when you ran IHRA I rode the elevator with you and your wife at Covington Kentucky in 2005 At the IHRA World Championship Awards banquet. You are a class guy and a great racer. God speed to you and all you do you are a inspiration to what we love.
Never knew how Doug got his nickname. I did have the opportunity to work for Doug and go to Bristol as part of his drag racing team a few years back. Thank you Clay for sharing this video.
My stepson did the BRAKES class and I went to see it. About 2 weeks later there was an incident on the highway while my stepson was driving his mom. I am absolutely convinced that they would have both died had he not taken that class. As it was, he drove through the trouble without a scratch. Thank Doug and Thanks Clay!!!!!!
That story epitomises what I have always thought of you youre a class act Sir sorry for both of you losing your son / sons thats a hard road to travel for sure
I put both my son and daughter through B.R.A.K.E.S approx. 10 years ago. To this day my kids will say I nearly got into an accident today but my B.R.A.K.E.S. training saved me again. I can't thank Doug Herbert and the B.R.A.K.E.S. Staff enough for a program that literally is keeping our kids safe. Clay, your a Class Act see you at the track...
Such a beautiful lesson on life shared. We never really know what someone else is going through. Even when we’re going through something very similar. The imperfect side of us as humans do judge. I believe we can all agree we do so to often without a thought. Hearing this story gives pause for many humanitarian benefits for us all. Never knew much about Clay Millican until watching these TH-cam videos. I quickly began understanding why the man is where he is. I’ve read up in more detail in his life and there are numerous lesson to be learned by doing so. I suggest reading up on the man and I hope one day he is compelled to write us more detailed lessons. I believe the world will do good to learn from them. Thank you so much for the leadership!
I worked at a cabinet shop next door to Clays place when that went on. Clay and Mike were always so down to earth and let us check out the equipment in between races. Clay dominated IHRA in those days hands down!
Thank you for the old school memories Clay many wildnight's in years past . I enjoy every burn out you and now can add your wife to the big time burn out fun . If you have anymore Elvis video I'm sure everyone would be grateful to see it. Your channel is a great families first channel .
Your good man Clay,met you in Pamona last year was a guest through Mainline.I watch all your videos had no idea how much I didn't know about drag racing life lessons and maintaining a good attitude.It today's world, it's nice change of pace knowing there still good people out there.
What a story. 🤣 Ive never thought about the "who stages first" in my life. You're a really fantastic man. Youre story telling is a bonus. ...........oh, and that noisy thing you drive is cool too. 🤣 Thank you for telling this story . I never knew about your own son. Happy new year and a great 2024 season.
I only think about getting in before the time out and getting down to that 3rd bulb at the correct repeated staging RPM. And shaving it close on the green side is the forever hope.
You talked about hearing the crowd over a fuel engine. My very first Stk Elim. Pass on the National Event stage I remember pulling into the water box and looking up at a sold out standing room only crowd in Pomona at the 1995 Winternationals and thinking WOW, the big stage (as they were doing some track prep for the pair in front of us). And I so far cannot remember a single time I have ever while in the car from leaving the lanes to completing any passes either Qualifying or in Eliminations, at any event since ever even seen the crowd ever again (or lack of it), it is me, my car, the process, the track, the tree, the starting line crew, and the other car and driver in the other lane...total tunnelvision, and the work at hand...there can be a packed house or empty stands...I just don't remember seeing any of it beyond that very first time. And at every National Event I always after my race day is done personally visit the grandstands area to remind me that I was once long ago before the mid 70's was a Top Fuel fan and a grandstands seat kid! And that it was what drove me to race as an adult. Since I started racing in 1975, except on TV, I don't think I have ever witnessed a full fuel session again. It is like the crowd I just don't see it anymore when you are a part of the show. Too focused on the job at hand praying for that very elusive day where 6-7 rounds or more go your way leading to holding up that famed Wally at the end of my very far and few days left on earth! I will attempt in November at Vegas to get by your pit and finally say hi to my internet and fuel hero Clay! Just a chance for 1 of the slowest to meet one of the fastest in the game!
I have always been a Doug fan, watching you 2 in the IHRA, and then seeing this happen, HELL he is 3X your size, you have been my favorite driver. mad props
I met Rick Stewart in Denver after the Saturday races. He never reacted politely to a stand off like that. He was a very nice guy, and answered my two or three questions, but his thoughts were, "I'm the starter, you move in, you stage, you go. Anything else is holding up the show."
One of my favorite memories from racing was being at joe Byrd’s house with clay and dalton for the group class we did before he started racing for joe, I’m so sorry dalton passed and especially for the way it happened, he was such a nice kid and an amazing competitor to race against.
What a great great guy! My nephew and I watched Clay film a commercial for Coke in person in the mid 2000's at Commerce Dragway then saw the commercial the next day during the finals. Crazy how life brings rivals together for a common cause!!
Love your stories! Always entertaining and never dull! I am truly sorry for the losses you and Doug have been dealt. Keep that positive vibe, and keep the content coming!!!!
Clay, you posted this four weeks ago but I'm just now seeing it. I lost my oldest son back in 2006 to a work related car accident. I'm sorry for your lost and for Doug's lost as well. I have a new respect for you both based on this story. I hope I get to see you and talk with you at the Fall Nationals here in Texas this weekend if I'm able to make it. If not, good luck to you and your team.
Clay had completely forgot about that moment I was one sitting in the stands at reading when you did that I was greatest moment my life and you gave somebody a great name you are a true class act don't ever forget it
True words spoken at the end and how things do change in life and sometimes a tragedy can shed light on things …don’t hate just let it go live life and enjoy it
Great story of life and forgiveness. When I was younger I didn't really understand maturity and growing wiser with age. Iam seeing it and understanding better with each passing year.
it still amazes that some people hold a grudge, till sorrow brings them together and they become an unstoppable force united to make sure that no one else has to go through the sadness they have had to endure, sir's my hats off to both of you. what most don't understand racers are a different breed on the starting line its the worst enemy in the pits and in real life its brotherhood racing family is family all of us are there for each other
This is a great story thank you and I remember seeing this happen Steve was very anger it had never happened in the history of drag race Steve was very serious about his position on the tree… God bless you and Doug’s friendship..I’m sorry for both your of you fellas loseing your sons
That has to be the saddest way for two people to become friendly. Bless both of your sons memories.
Clay is such a genuine guy; anyone with that amount of smile lines around the eyes is straight up.
Clay is probably one of the most genuine good people I've ever seen.
Clay, you don’t need a nickname.
You are a class act in my opinion and I wish you great success in NHRA!
then just call him "Class Act" :)
Nice statement!
Caring Clay Millican! You have earned that nickname by just participating in the Brakes program!
Over 40 years ago I lost my son due to a sailing accident. Every time you talk about your loss, I get a tear in my eye. It's GOOD and reminds me that life is but a gift on loan, so live every day as if it may be your last. Thanks for sharing your story with us and keep stomping on the loud pedal.
Sir, you are a down to earth, stand up guy! I wish all the guys that run in NHRA had the great attitude you have. Best wishes in all you do.
Man that brings back memories. I had forgotten about the big burndown. Its amazing how tragedy will bring people together. Awesome video...honestly one of my favorites so far. Thank you !!
Glad you liked it!
You 2 make me proud to be an NHRA fan. Handshake to both of you.
Tons of respect for both of you as fathers. What a history between two teams pushing cars to the limit. When you mentioned losing your son Dalton, it hit me hard. It brings all the memories of my 2 boys growing up, and all the things missed.
I lost my son Sept 27 2020. This video brought tears to my eyes UNFORTUNATELY I can relate to your pain brothers. All we can do is move forward and TREASURE the memories. That's why I have this profile pic. It's my favorite pic of him. And my first car I painted
Sorry for your loss. Couldn't imagine one of my children dying before me. Hope you and your family are well
@@Shiftheads Thanks. The 27 this month will be 2 years. I'm at as much peace as I will get.
Thanks for sharing your story Clay. Life's most difficult challenges have a way of humbling us and bringing us together. ❤️
Over the years I have kinda stepped away from the drag racing, but since meeting Clay and holding a conversation with him in I'm guessing around 2004, he is a constant for me. Outside of racing, he is still just one of my favorite humans. His positivity and authenticity are just above and beyond most. 💙
You’re a great story teller Clay, thank you to you and RWR and Doug, and all your great Spenser’s ! I love your passion. Fron a 60 + year drag veteran.
Thank you so much for all you do for the sport and fans. So So sorry for your loss, I lost my son 2 1/2 years old in 1993. I just watched you in St.louis 2022 Midwest Nationals, and always enjoy your smile and energy. May God bless you and your family and crew.
Clay, this is one of the most touching stories I've ever heard. Thank you for sharing with all of us. Class act you are sir..
First of all sorry for both family's losses, I can't even imagine the pain. Second everyone could benefit from the story you just told. We tend to take things for granted and hold onto things that don't ultimately matter. Very touching testimony!
Well said Kevin,there's a video on you tube.Clay does an interview discussing the day he got that knock on door when he lost his son.It was gut wrenching,its always in the back of my mind.If you ever get a chance you need to go check him out in person.It amazing how he tames that 11,000 horsepower beast
Tragic way for two hardcore competitors to team up for a common goal. Good on both of you!!
Has it REALLY been 20 years since this now?? This will FOREVER be one of the greatest staging duels/burndowns in all of NHRA history! One of the most memorable ones for me that I remember and know of beside for examples, Warren Johnson vs Dave Connolly at Denver in 2005 and Warren Johnson vs the late Scott Geoffrion in Houston in 1994.
Right? Time flies...
@@LivingNitro Yeah, it sure does...
That broke my heart when your son died. He was not only an awesome monster truck driver, but a carbon copy of you when it came to displaying an upbeat, positive attitude if he won or lost.
Thanks for sharing that story Clay,,, I'm tearing up now.. Respect
I followed Clay a lot in the IHRA as well the NHRA. He is really a great guy. He is always smiling and a positive racer. He had a very long reign in the IHRA. VERY sad to hear about his son. Awesome program! I love to see these guys give back to the community. I wish them all the best that God has to offer!
Man... this was a great story. So sorry for the loss of both your sons. And letting bygones be bygones is a wise move for anyone who wants to live a joyful life.
Have met both these guys, Doug built my engine in my old classic 57, they are both class at its finest. Good memories and good lesson.
I am very fortunate that I have worked with both Clay and Doug (I am a photographer for a Drag Illustrated Magazine) and I can tell you for first hand experience that both of them a total class acts! I actually had a chance to shoot Clay again yesterday (Sept 23rd) and he is always in a great mood. Just an overall really good Dude!
At that moment I tested up. You have always been my favorite driver. Even in IHRA. thank you 👏👏👏
That's life! And after today's story of yet another...That's life! I am enriched...yet a little more today. Sharing your sons is a noble and, yet humbling thing to do. Thank you so much for sharing.
Clay- you are such a class act. Didn't know you lost a son. I remember the burn down and what a touching story about when Doug lost two sons. As a fellow father, I can't imagine the pain from that loss. Onward and upward. Hope to say hi to you in Dallas next month.
Amen to that!
Donation just made to BRAKES in honor of my own son. Sorry that you boys lost your sons. I cannot imagine. Thanks for helping kids learn to live.
Now it's unanimous, everyone likes Clay Millican 👍
Thanks for posting. Stories like this are why drag racing is so great.
I met you at Martin Michigan when you ran IHRA I rode the elevator with you and your wife at Covington Kentucky in 2005 At the IHRA World Championship Awards banquet. You are a class guy and a great racer. God speed to you and all you do you are a inspiration to what we love.
Much respect to both drivers, humbling story.. lessons learned, life is more important than any issues in life
long and sort of what I took away from this was the humbling story of these two men, and the good work the continue to do.
Clay was my favorite driver in the IHRA before this even happened. This cemented him as my favorite top fuel driver of all time.
Clay, love your videos. How kind you are to everyone. We said hello to you at Indy. You are a true gentleman!
Heartbreaking and uplifting at the same 3. Always nice to know there's good people out there
Ur an awesome guy Clay . I’ve talk to u several time at different tracks and always enjoyed ur kindness and down to earth personality. Keep the faith.
Never knew how Doug got his nickname.
I did have the opportunity to work for Doug and go to Bristol as part of his drag racing team a few years back.
Thank you Clay for sharing this video.
Much respect to you Clay. You're a great example of a gentleman driver
Thanks guys for the memories. God Bless you and your family's.
Wow, really tugged the old heart strings with that story!
What a beautiful, touching story. My sincerest condolences for the loss of your son. Blessings.
Class ACT....CLAY ! Awesome story I have never heard. Thank you. 59 and have ALWAYS been a fan of your addictive smile and positive attitude.
My stepson did the BRAKES class and I went to see it. About 2 weeks later there was an incident on the highway while my stepson was driving his mom. I am absolutely convinced that they would have both died had he not taken that class. As it was, he drove through the trouble without a scratch. Thank Doug and Thanks Clay!!!!!!
Awesome story, you're such a great guy Clay!!
That story epitomises what I have always thought of you youre a class act Sir sorry for both of you losing your son / sons thats a hard road to travel for sure
WORDS TO LIVE BY,PEOPLE ! THANKS CLAY !
NHRA has some of the most down to earth folks of all sports it seems. Bravo
Clay with his welcoming personality has truly become well has been the class of the field in Nitro top fuel racing
Heartbreaking and yet fills your heart. Thanks for sharing this story.
I put both my son and daughter through B.R.A.K.E.S approx. 10 years ago. To this day my kids will say I nearly got into an accident today but my B.R.A.K.E.S. training saved me again. I can't thank Doug Herbert and the B.R.A.K.E.S. Staff enough for a program that literally is keeping our kids safe.
Clay, your a Class Act see you at the track...
This is what road-safety should be about. Bless y'all!
Such a beautiful lesson on life shared. We never really know what someone else is going through. Even when we’re going through something very similar.
The imperfect side of us as humans do judge. I believe we can all agree we do so to often without a thought.
Hearing this story gives pause for many humanitarian benefits for us all.
Never knew much about Clay Millican until watching these TH-cam videos.
I quickly began understanding why the man is where he is.
I’ve read up in more detail in his life and there are numerous lesson to be learned by doing so. I suggest reading up on the man and I hope one day he is compelled to write us more detailed lessons.
I believe the world will do good to learn from them.
Thank you so much for the leadership!
Thanks for sharing, and helping drivers.
I worked at a cabinet shop next door to Clays place when that went on. Clay and Mike were always so down to earth and let us check out the equipment in between races. Clay dominated IHRA in those days hands down!
Thank you for an amazing story, rivals come to an understanding and teaching kids to drive
Every time a little kid says he wants to be a race car driver when he grows up, I hope that kid grows up to be like one of these guys.
Great testimony powerfull wish the world could be more like u clay.
You are so humble. Thank you for sharing this. ♥
I have a great respect now for this man. God bless you and your family Clay.❤️. 📕
Thank you for the old school memories Clay many wildnight's in years past . I enjoy every burn out you and now can add your wife to the big time burn out fun . If you have anymore Elvis video I'm sure everyone would be grateful to see it. Your channel is a great families first channel .
The both of you show what a "Real Man" is.
All else aside, that was a really nice fella talking, there. Maybe our politicians could learn a little by watching this.
A true class act and a good role model. I have always been a fan since he signed my hat in Ennis tx 30 years ago.
He is one of the best!
Hell of a story. In less than 10 min you made me laugh and tear up. Thank you for sharing.
Your good man Clay,met you in Pamona last year was a guest through Mainline.I watch all your videos had no idea how much I didn't know about drag racing life lessons and maintaining a good attitude.It today's world,
it's nice change of pace knowing there still good people out there.
Great video. And thank you for reminding me to register my son for BRAKES, which I forgot about.
What a story. 🤣 Ive never thought about the "who stages first" in my life.
You're a really fantastic man. Youre story telling is a bonus.
...........oh, and that noisy thing you drive is cool too. 🤣
Thank you for telling this story . I never knew about your own son.
Happy new year and a great 2024 season.
I only think about getting in before the time out and getting down to that 3rd bulb at the correct repeated staging RPM. And shaving it close on the green side is the forever hope.
You talked about hearing the crowd over a fuel engine. My very first Stk Elim. Pass on the National Event stage I remember pulling into the water box and looking up at a sold out standing room only crowd in Pomona at the 1995 Winternationals and thinking WOW, the big stage (as they were doing some track prep for the pair in front of us).
And I so far cannot remember a single time I have ever while in the car from leaving the lanes to completing any passes either Qualifying or in Eliminations, at any event since ever even seen the crowd ever again (or lack of it), it is me, my car, the process, the track, the tree, the starting line crew, and the other car and driver in the other lane...total tunnelvision, and the work at hand...there can be a packed house or empty stands...I just don't remember seeing any of it beyond that very first time.
And at every National Event I always after my race day is done personally visit the grandstands area to remind me that I was once long ago before the mid 70's was a Top Fuel fan and a grandstands seat kid! And that it was what drove me to race as an adult. Since I started racing in 1975, except on TV, I don't think I have ever witnessed a full fuel session again. It is like the crowd I just don't see it anymore when you are a part of the show. Too focused on the job at hand praying for that very elusive day where 6-7 rounds or more go your way leading to holding up that famed Wally at the end of my very far and few days left on earth!
I will attempt in November at Vegas to get by your pit and finally say hi to my internet and fuel hero Clay! Just a chance for 1 of the slowest to meet one of the fastest in the game!
I have always been a Doug fan, watching you 2 in the IHRA, and then seeing this happen, HELL he is 3X your size, you have been my favorite driver. mad props
I remember this. Clay called Doug's bluff. NHRA history, loved every two minutes of it
I met Rick Stewart in Denver after the Saturday races. He never reacted politely to a stand off like that. He was a very nice guy, and answered my two or three questions, but his thoughts were, "I'm the starter, you move in, you stage, you go. Anything else is holding up the show."
A carbon copy of his mentor Buster!
This is one of the greatest stories I've ever heard! Thanks for sharing!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Wow, what a great and heartfelt story. Thanks for sharing your story.
One of my favorite memories from racing was being at joe Byrd’s house with clay and dalton for the group class we did before he started racing for joe, I’m so sorry dalton passed and especially for the way it happened, he was such a nice kid and an amazing competitor to race against.
What an awesome story that turned into a great friendship!
Clay is one of kind! Class act in every aspect 😎
Wow what a crazy story with twists and turns! Clay is a good guy!
Some of the most wholesome humble people I have ever met are racers. Just built different
What a great great guy! My nephew and I watched Clay film a commercial for Coke in person in the mid 2000's at Commerce Dragway then saw the commercial the next day during the finals. Crazy how life brings rivals together for a common cause!!
There are no true grudges in the racing community. Everyone is there for the same reasons. All good humans.
Love your stories! Always entertaining and never dull! I am truly sorry for the losses you and Doug have been dealt. Keep that positive vibe, and keep the content coming!!!!
Wow very touching story, thank you for sharing . I have two boys as well and your story really hits home.
Clay, you posted this four weeks ago but I'm just now seeing it. I lost my oldest son back in 2006 to a work related car accident. I'm sorry for your lost and for Doug's lost as well. I have a new respect for you both based on this story. I hope I get to see you and talk with you at the Fall Nationals here in Texas this weekend if I'm able to make it. If not, good luck to you and your team.
Proof that real competition and sportsmanship do go together.
Clay ...thanks for sharing your story !
thank you sir for sharing what has to be an almost unbearable loss and the story of the end result from what started as a simple grudge match showdown
You are an amazing human!!! Well done sir.
Thanks for sharing, Clay.
Clay had completely forgot about that moment I was one sitting in the stands at reading when you did that I was greatest moment my life and you gave somebody a great name you are a true class act don't ever forget it
Interesting story. Detroit Loves you guys!! G
True words spoken at the end and how things do change in life and sometimes a tragedy can shed light on things …don’t hate just let it go live life and enjoy it
Dude that was one of the best stories so far. You both been thru so much. Great tail. Keep em coming and lets grab another wally
I love that story. Godspeed to both of you and your families.
Seen both of you guys race at RMR in west valley city Utah.....love both of you guys...
How can anyone not like Clay? Even if he beat me I’d be smiling.
Great story of life and forgiveness. When I was younger I didn't really understand maturity and growing wiser with age. Iam seeing it and understanding better with each passing year.
it still amazes that some people hold a grudge, till sorrow brings them together and they become an unstoppable force united to make sure that no one else has to go through the sadness they have had to endure, sir's my hats off to both of you. what most don't understand racers are a different breed on the starting line its the worst enemy in the pits and in real life its brotherhood racing family is family all of us are there for each other
Thanks for sharing this very touching story and my condolences on the tragic circumstances...............
As far as I'm concerned Clay certainly has a nickname.
Clay "Class Act" Millican
Wow. What an incredibly sad but heartwarming story. glad I watched this.
This is a great story thank you and I remember seeing this happen Steve was very anger it had never happened in the history of drag race Steve was very serious about his position on the tree… God bless you and Doug’s friendship..I’m sorry for both your of you fellas loseing your sons