My dad still isn’t completely over losing Dale. Dale was my dads super hero he couldn’t get enough of him. I’m surprising him here soon with a trip to the DEI museum. His memories live forever
That's the one thing I like about Dale Jr's podcast, he goes places you wouldn't expect him to go. Even the deepest places like the day his dad past away with Mike Helton man who broke the horrible news to the world. Very heavy interview!
I think it's natural. Folks have views or information concerning a loved one and you want to know. I get that he could ask these questions on a personal basis, but Dale Sr was/is a public figure to say the least, and folks want to know.
You can tell from this interview that Mike Helton still carries a heavy heart about that day, he's never fully gotten over the hurdles of it all and still carries it all to this very day. Bless his heart ♥We are with you on that Mr. Mike Helton!!!! Thank You Dale Jr for doing these podcasts, otherwise, the fans would never have gotten to know some of the details that you've aired about your dad that we the public didn't know. Take care, love to you and Amy and your sweet precious baby girls Isla Rose and Nicole Loraine ♥
Art Vandelay the internet is what you make it just like most things in life. I don’t often make mean comments, but I am truthful if I need to be. It’s all about the delivery and sometimes providing a little insight as to why you think, what you think, helps a ton. But rude comments by themselves are just that; a rude comment.
The answer you are seeking is "TIME". My father died suddenly & unexpectedly in a violent car crash in early 1984. I was 22 yrs old at the time. I also identified his body, about 90 minutes after his death. He died on the scene of the crash, within a moment or so from impact with an oak tree. Another motorist came driving along, evidently only a moment after it happened, and the gentleman told me my father was barely conscious, with his eyes completely shut, and mumbled a few "garbled" words that the fella couldn't understand, and then he expired right then & there. As you can probably sense, it really doesn't bother me at all to talk about it now. While everyone grieves in different ways from losing a loved one, time absolutely creates "a buffer" which enables most anyone to freely talk about the incident/loss years later, with little to no sadness. Of course that length of time to "heal and move forward" differs slightly for different folks. It really didn't take me too long, because my father had 5 sisters, and his mother still alive when he died, and it was VERY tough for them, he was "their hero".....so I had to remain strong for the family. I finally broke down about a month or so later. But after that, I was back to a normal state of mind and life. In a way, after so much time has gone by, it actually helps to discuss it with others. Because you have already done all of that grieving & coming to terms with it years ago. It may also help others who recently lost a loved one to realize that they WILL heal, and their life will continue, and get better.....again, with a little time. Even with the loss of your father/mother, or sibling. I believe the only exception is the loss of your own child. That is undoubtedly the worst loss anyone could experience. Far worse than suddenly & tragically losing a parent "before their time". My father was 42 when he was killed. I am now 57........so trust me, I know. Now that I think about it........both mine and my father's ages when he died were very similar to the ages of Dale Sr and Jr, back when his father died. But make no mistake, it HAD to be extra tough on Dale Jr back when it first happened, because all of those damned media hounds kept hitting him up about it for months, starting right after his death. The media hounds have NO respect towards others during such tragic times. They're only worried about trying to get "a cover story" to make their damned living. Probably asking him disgusting questions like "how do you feel about your father's sudden death?"..........It's despicable.
@@MrJc7998 Thanks for the kind words. It's ok, 1984 was a long time ago. I don't mind talking about it today, especially for all the young bucks who like to drink/party, and drive. That's the part I left out ( in this situation, comparing to Dale's untimely death, where "alcohol" played no role ).......my Dad and his drinking buddy were plastered. My Dad's buddy was driving my Dad's old Cadillac when they wrecked. I told family members that it didn't matter that "Dad wasn't driving".......because he had already totaled 2 other cars only months earlier, and walked away from both, which was a miracle in itself. Dad was tempting fate, and that oak tree "sealed his fate". His buddy spent nearly a year in a coma. ( This was on a remote 2 lane highway, way out in the middle of nowhere, in north Alabama. I got the call less than 20 minutes after that motorist drove up on the crash site. ) I'm absolutely sure that Dad was encouraging the high speeds. If I can save 1 life here and there by telling this story ( but not in this instance, ie: Dale's death while racing ) to young people, it's all worth it if I repeat the story a thousand times. Cheers to you as well my friend, and have a Blessed week.
Howabouthetruth When you get there, have a beer, reflect, nothing more, nothing less. That stuff happens. We tempt faith daily, weather it’s your drink of choice or your smoke, or your diet. No judgment, he was judged as he went in.....he’s where he should be.... god speed
Mike Helton the man from NASCAR a man I respect who I think should be running NASCAR. Thank you Jr. I cant imagine how hard this is, for the both of you to talk about this.
Sr was my number one icon and legend but I will say this Jr is closing in on his iconic father! I enjoy listening to him more than most. Your father would be so damn proud of you and how you’ve evolved into a great man.
@@williamcap2236 it was crazy all the people then and there still are a**holes who say that it was Sterlings fault and should have been Schrader and matter of fact there have even been people who blamed Jr
@@millertime97jm I don't know why but there was someone who was blaming him. They said "Your father died because of you being greedy and finishing second. Should have been in third so you died instead of him."
🏁♥️🏁 I won’t ever forget that . I cried for three months. Wouldn’t even watch Nascar for a year . We did loose the greatest driver ever . Nascar just isn’t the same without him .
I was fortunate to go to 3 of the next 7 races after that. Being at Atlanta, did a lot to help me cope. Was a huge #29 fan that day Was a Dale Jarrett fan
Colette, it affected me the exact same way! That next day, when I was finally alone, I cried INCONSOLABLY literally! Still today, I can't wrap my head around the whole thing! Nascar hasn't been the same for me. Nowadays when I watch a race, it feels like I'm watching something thats for someone else, not me. I have an excluded feeling. Ole Dale, I think about him a lot. But also, his passing opened my eyes about how much I idolized Dale. People don't think about the idolatry in sports. It's actually not a good thing
Also, @Art Vandelay just because Richard Petty says something doesn't make it fact but regardless, he only said best so how does that make Sr. not in the top 10?
YOU MIGHT THINK I'M CRAZY - But last year I was watching a tribute on SR. When a voice came over my shoulder, saying and I quote, ( Quit watching me race and get upstairs and be with you're family). My dad my brother and my nephew were upstairs, and yes it sounded just like Dale. TRUE STORY.
I bear a certain amount of guilt because I gave up on Nascar after Dale died. I love Dale Jr. and I'm proud of him for picking up the ball and running with it, but racing died for me on that horrible day in Daytona. R.I.P. #3.
It’s crazy I was very young it’s one of my earliest memories. I couldn’t understand why he died while Tony Stewart survives his wild ride. Didn’t watch NASCAR since until this 2020 Daytona and wow Ryan Newman is lucky to be alive!
I will never forget that day. I worked for a local TV station and had my press credentials that allowed me access everywhere around the speedway. I just so happened to be standing on the inside wall looking down the super stretch from turn three. I had been taking pictures as the cars went by me. It was the last lap before Dale died when I snapped a picture of the 15, 8 and 3 cars nose too tail. It is an unbelievable photo. One I will cherish and hopefully be able to share it with Dale Jr.
I cannot stress enough how much courage it took for both of them to talk about this. It inspires me to be more open in discussing difficult things in my past. Thank you Jr., and thank you Mr. Helton for the wise words
I remember being 6 and watching the race on Feb 18 2001. My dad and I were watching the race at the time and we were happy that MW won that race. But when Mike came up and said we lost Dale Earnhardt I remember crying a lot as a child, because my favorite driver was and is always been Dale Sr. Years later I find out my dad knew that Dale was gone when he saw Schrader waving his hand for the EMT guys to get Dale out of the car and when that ambulance was going slow to the hospital my dad said even he knew that Dale was gone. I watched NASCAR until Dale and Jeff retired. Granted Jimmy Johnson and Kevin Harvick still race and I watched every now and then. Thank you Dale Jr for many races and your skill. You are my favorite driver of all time, your father would’ve been proud of your career as a driver and you’re a hell of an interviewer and talk show personality. My upmost respect to you and your dad.
One of the best shows you have done. Mike Helton is legend in my book. What he has done for our sport and the Nasacr family is amazing. Dale you sitting and discussing the worst day of your life and modern day racing. You both showed so much class and sincerity. God bless you both.
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Lost for words over this interview. I know Jr. and Mike share a very special bond. Nothing but absolute respect for both of you. God bless you and your families. 🇺🇸👍
So hard to hear this....again. I'll never forget that day and the tears that I shed. I can't even listen to Garth Brooks "The Dance" anymore without crying. My memories of meeting your Dad will remain with me forever. What a great man....and the GREATEST driver!
Not the first time, nor probably the last, this his podcast has brought on such emotion. For who I thought was a quiet, man of few words, he really is good at it.
Saddest day in NASCAR history. Prior to the accident it was the greatest single piece of driving I had ever seen. One man holding off the entire field so that his driver and his son could battle for the win. That performance to me was the most impressive performance I have ever seen. I think it has been overshadowed by the tragedy, rightfully so, but that really showed the talent of the greatest.
I was in Daytona for this race. I was there with a group of Dodge dealers I was working for at the time as it was Dodge's return to NASCAR. we had pit passes and all hospitality passes. I was the only Dodge guy dressed head to toe in Earnhardt gear. Dale was my favorite driver and i didn't care that was there with the Dodge guys, i was going to show my Earnhardt colors. After the race we were in a large Dodge sponsored hospitality tent on the back stretch and the eerie quiet was surreal. I didn't know at that time that Dale had passed, but you could tell something wasn't right. There was a large screen TV with a still shot of Michael Waltrip after he won, but the quiet was telling. I'll never forget that day. its a day to remember like 9-11, something you don't forget where you where when it happened
The last 20 seconds or so of this video is especially poignant, with Jr. thanking Mickey for everything he did for the Earnhardt family at the time of Sr.'s death, and also everything that Mickey did or tried to do after the accident. Jr. is and always will be a class act, and those 20 or so seconds are just a great example of why I feel that way about Jr..
That was rough even to this day for me. I saw your Dad race one time and he was my my driver. I haven't seen any driver who was as incredible driver and person that your Dad was. He was just an awesome person. He was only 1 of 3 people that I only would ask for a hand shake and nothing else.
I was laying on my couch. My girlfriend had just Dr. John lettered me and moved out the Friday before. I had always been a fan of Nascar but didn't really watch it alot. That race was the 1st 500 I watched as an adult all by myself. I don't know who junior can control those emotions talking about his dad as good as he does. These videos will live forever... I'm so grateful Jr and his family got out of the airplane.. not sure the world wound be the same with a different outcome. #3 #9 #88
Its beyond crazy just contemplating that those events all took place in 01. Growing up through them at such an influential age, they both seem so recent and relevant in my mind when they are just under TWO FULL DECADES in the past.
When I was in the Army i was an EMT' so I knew what had possibly happened when I saw Kenny Schrader waving for the Track Safety Crew to hurry up....but on the TV when they showed the ambulance heading to the hospital I knew for sure what had happened as it was not moving at fast speed to save a life..when Max came on and confirmed it, I just broke down and cried, to write this it still brings tears to my eyes, for Dale was one of the best to ever turn a wheel in the sport, and was well loved and respected by the true fans of NASCAR weather you liked him or not! I know hes in good company in the "Great Beyond" as he was a totally different person off the track with that smile of his, he just had a way about him that just made ya want to like him, or try to be as good as he was! The stories I have heard an read about him, he interviews he gave reflect that, a person who had a life long dream and actually got to live it! not many people can say that!
Let me just ask you this... there were two theories going around at the time of Sr.'s death re: the slow ambulance ride to the hospital... one theory is that Sr. was already gone and it was obvious, because of the extent of the injuries, that they weren't going to get him back no matter what they did, and another theory is that the ambulance was going slow because they were worried about a broken neck or back, and didn't want to "jostle" Sr. any more than they "had" to on the way to the hospital. Do you think Sr. was already gone in the back of the ambulance? I have seen footage of them pumping his chest as they got out of the ambulance and went inside the ER < th-cam.com/video/iLDFXrUmbw8/w-d-xo.html > (Go to 1:09 of the vid, and you'll see the EMTs giving Sr. CPR on their way into the ER doors), and to me, they were going so far down on his chest that A.) it looked like he had a flail chest (so no matter what they did, it wasn't going to bring him back), and B.) they just wanted to be able to tell the family/NASCAR/the world, etc., that they did *EVERYTHING* possible to get Sr. back, but it just didn't work out.
It's been 18 years since that day, and I still haven't heard anyone say the biggest factual words about it. So I'll say it.. and I'm among the NASCAR world of fans who would know. So here.. NASCAR began to die, the day Dale died! Mark Martin said it best "Dale was the last cowboy ". His enormous personality, his swagger, his mystique. It wont be back for a long time, if ever! And even though we still have another 7 time champ, when Dale died, Excalibur was placed back in the rock. And untill another king comes along, the sword will stay there. Like I said Johnson is our 7 time champ now, and he's good no doubt, but as Merlin said to Uther.. "Your not the one" RIP Dale
Heith Huffman There might be drivers that will win more races, and may even be someone that wins more than 7 Championships someday, but as you said, there will never be another Dale Earnhardt. The attitude, bravado and try to win at any cost just isn’t something we’ll see. Especially with how soft our society has become. This new generation of drivers won’t have to come up hard like Dale did, and I think that had a lot to do with the man and driver he became. Without a doubt NASCAR suffered mightily the day Dale died. I think they can get some fans back with the right moves, but I’m not sure it will ever get back to it was in the 80’s and 90’s.
I am a big fan of Dale Sr n Dale Jr...I agree every word u said! Thanks for saying that to people, I said the same to people in the past some people didn't agree with me...I don't watch NASCAR as much as I use too since Dale died...God bless u🤘🤘RIP the #3 simply the best....
The opening statement was absolutely true in my case. The first (and for many years the only) time I saw Mike Helton was when he had to make the announcement that the man I thought was immortal died that day.
Same here. I was at my then girlfriends house now my wife’s house eating pizza. When the news came out I just dropped my slice and couldn’t eat anymore. With 911 i had some strange events happen. I was on my way to work at 6 am. On the way to work I got sick and when I got to work I told them I had to go home. Laying there on the couch already feeling bad I watched 9/11 unfold, while my wife was work at the nearby air force base scared out of her mind. Both moments are still so clear in my memory.
Junior is a very good interviewer. He very gently guided him to elaborate more and share more details. He let him speak and didn’t constantly talk over him.
That day is burned into my memory. I was and still am a Dale Earnhardt fan. He was an influence on my life from the first time I saw him race in the early 80s up until today. He's always been a role model for me. I've gotten out of some dark spots in life because I would ask myself, "what would Dale do." And the answer always was "he'd keep going".
When I learned of Dale's passing, that was the longest 3 hour drive home from the dunes I've ever had, and I've been going out to the dunes for 20 years! #LongLiveSr
Its been 20yrs now 2021. I still remember the TV broadcast of this. I was at work. Back then I was still a jockey. I had 9 rides that day. I was super happy to be riding but super pissed that I'd miss watching the race. I was riding in California. Got 4 wins and 2 seconds that day. (1 third a forth and a dead last after having to pull up a runner in the first race who bleed) . I got off the horse in race 8. (Last win of the day). And my friend who also was a strapper for the trainer I rode for came over and instead of being happy and giving me a hug. She had tears in her eyes. She knew I loved NASCAR. I said what's wrong. She said it's not good. There's been a crash at Daytona. And I said ok... Who's crashed. Not like Daytona doesn't have plenty of accidents. And she said Dale crashed. I was like well Dales gonna be pissed. I asked who won the race. She talked about Michael and Juniors 1-2. I thought well when Dale gets out of medical he's gonna be over the moon. Went back to change and people in the riders room had turned on the tv. And people were moving over to watch. I went over and another jockey came past and said to me... It's not good . I think their making a announcement. I just remember looking at the tv. And thinking why of all people take Dale. I don't remember much that night I went out and got drunk as hell. People in the bar Noone was talking. People were stunned and shocked. They kept replaying that announcement on the news. Finally the bar owner turned the tv off. I'd never seen so many heartbroken people before in one place. It's a day you never forget. Dale and DW were always my fav. Drivers.
I remember the week after my little 5 year old cousin....Asking who my favorite driver was gonna be since Sr passed....He then said if I wanted he would share his favorite driver which was Bobby Labonte....I think it’s the one and only time we hugged was that Sunday of Rockingham....I politely turned his offer down and said I’m bitching my wagon full time to that number 8 Budweiser car
Mike Helton is a great guy I remember him in my 20's back when the bond and friendship he had with Dale and to this day he still seems shell shocked and to be the guy to have the whole weight of the world put on his shoulders. He always was intimidating looking but inside he is a big teddy bear and u can tell he is still effected by that to this day. Very Emotional maybe dale jr and him can get together in private and find some closure together. 2001 was a horrible year all around and even for me personally in my life. I'm 39 now and still 2001 was like an impossible unbelievable nightmare that still rings in all Americans who went thru that year and the innocence lost in this whole country. I was in The Navy at that time so it was a real roller coaster. Became a Nascar fan in 1998 and just 3 years latter everything came crashing down. I had just returnrd from alon deployment with the USS cole when it got bombed and finally got home we al gathered up to watch the 2001 Daytona 500 all excited bout the future New Tv deal and Dale Sr made some very Ironic erie interviews that week that really spook u looking back at it
There are a couple of people here who've dissed Mike Helton. I don't know much about the man, but if Dale Jr. speaks highly of him, that's good enough for me.
I never knew who Mike Helton was until we got back to the hotel on that terrible day. My wife (a Jeff Gordon fan) and I were at Daytona in both 98 and 01. I've been a Dale Sr fan since my dad and uncle took me there in 1979, but, I think she took his death harder than I did!
I kind of feel like that even though there was a clear Earnhardt / Gordon rivalry that fans of either had immense respect for the other. I was always a huge Gordon fan but that day at Daytona gut checked me for a long time because regardless about who I rooted for I always had tremendous regard and respect for Dale Sr.
@@Ditmanppi Absolutely the same here. I grew up a Gordon fan. The "rivalry hate" was strong, but I dont think Ive ever cried so hard as that afternoon. The sport may have lost their god, but the world lost a great man, and I think the later is way harder to swallow then the former.
I remember that day like it was yesterday. As I watched this all play out on live television I knew what had happened and what the outcome was going to be. I kept telling my fiancé at the time and he just wouldn’t believe me. Miss Dale and the #3 car to this day and always will. RIP Dale!
I was at my favorite watering hole, watching the race. I did see the end of the race; did see the accident, but I had to go somewhere immediately after the checkered flag dropped, so I didn't know who was in the accident, nor did I know about their condition. I went back to the bar after I got done with whatever I was doing, and asked around who'd gotten in the accident, and how were they. *My. Jaw. Dropped. To. The. Floor.* when I found out that it was Dale Sr. that had the wreck, and that he'd passed away. I just couldn't believe it. He seemed like one of the most invincible people in the world at the time, so, like a lot of people, I just figured nothing could hurt him. :(
I VIVIDLY remember that day. We had an exchange student and it was the only race my dad would let me watch (only had one tv in the house). The student needed to get a new pair of shoes so I drove him. We waited til the end of the race and I remember being so mad that dale crashed even though it was his team who went 1-2. I get home a little while later to this man's announcement and even my father cried. He KNEW I loved Sr. I wanted to see him race just one day, but we could never afford it. He felt bad but I cannot blame him. I cried for a few days. I won't lie. I didn't even talk to my girlfriend at the time. I. Haven't felt like that for racing since, but I still love the sport. I admire Jr for the man he became. How he utilized other skills in life to be something amazing, even if off the track. Still can't believe there's not an earnhardt out there on track, but I'm glad there's one calling the race. I got to see Jr race only one time in Phoenix, unfortunately, his car caught fire.
Thank you Dale for inviting so many awesome and important figures in motorsports onto the show. This was tough to listen to, but at the same time it seemed like a healthy thing for you guys to do, to talk to Mike about his side of the story. There are things I could say about how it shouldn't have been allowed to happen in the first place. That too many drivers were allowed to die before more focus was placed on safety. I just wouldn't have been able to do what he did that day; what knew he had to say to the masses. He gets my respect for that.
Thanks Jr. that was great to have Mike in and talk about that day. I'm sure you both will have more talks about that day. It was with out a doubt one of the toughest days for me as well. I can't imagine how you felt. You are always in my prayers.
I have been a fan of this wonderful sport for over 35 years. When we were introduced to Mike Helton I was so impressed. He carried the job he did for sooo many years after that, I knew the sport was in great hands. I have the utmost respect for Mike Helton. I'm sure drivers didnt want to be called in the NASCAR hauler and face Mike. Ha As a fan I am so proud to be a fan of a sport that he played a huge factor in. Respect and wonderful stand up man is what I think of when I think of Mike Helton. He is a tremendous man and a tremendous leader. Thank you Mike.
It happened in the worst point in time in a lot of ways. First major NASCAR race broadcasted on a major sports network, and arguably the greatest driver in NASCAR gets killed on the biggest stage of stock car racing, in the biggest race of the year-the first race of the year, on the biggest sports network in America, in front of hundreds of thousands of people at the tracks and in front of millions watching live TV.
Dale went the way he wanted to go he never wanted to retire from racing it was something in him that kept him wanting more and more i mean how many nascar drivers are almost 50 and still competing at that level dale was, if he was still alive today i bet he would still get in that car but dale jr would of been a better driver had his father not died , i think when dale died dale jrs racing heart wasnt in it anymore and as years went on more and more and dale jr close calls as well scared him
Nobody had their finger on the pulse of nascar Racing the way that bill France jr. Did, but Mike Helton was as close to the proper successor to bill than anyone else. A monumental task indeed to keep nascar heading in the right direction. He shared the vision that; mr.France and Dale sr. Hashed out during those fishing trips in the off season. I feel nascars compass was lost with the passing of bill France and Dale Earnhardt sr
When Dale died I was 19 at my dad's house watching the race with him. As long as I can remember my dad always called Dale god. About 5 minutes before the fatal crash my dad got a call the his dad just passed away. The next few days I found myself crying over Dale dying more then my own grampa. I just think it's crazy how Dale affected so many people just doing what he did. Thanks for the podcast Jr. It's great to hear all these stories
I wasn't even a Dale Earnhardt fan, but when I was also around 18 or 19, Dale Earnhardt did a meet and greet at a local Chevy dealership near me and I went up there, got to meet him real quick and got an autograph and a photo. I think that shows you the gravity around that man. Respect. Seeing all the pit crews line up to congratulate him when he won the Daytona 500, to me, is still one of the all time greatest sports gestures I've ever seen.
My first time attending a NASCAR race was at Charlotte in 1986. Dale had the field beat all day. He would pit and come back through the pack and lead a half a lap. I was a Waltrip fan but had to respect Dale after seeing this and became a fan of his too. The day we lost him hurt me and all I could do was wish him "God Speed" and move forward with the sport like he told Richard to do if anything ever happened to him. I believe he is with God now and God's word was on his dash because he asked Stevie Waltrip to write them for him like she did for Darrell.
Thanks Dale Jr., I know that had to be rough to talk about. I'll never forget that week. I remember seeing the crash, but we had to go to church that evening before the announcement, so my dad told me on the way home. I still remember sitting in the back seat and hearing him say it, and being in tears most of the way home. Then, on Tuesday of that same week, my grandma passed away.
Thank-you to all of you for what you bring on the table for nascar fans.We will never forget your dad. He was really special and a house hold name for us and many fans.Jr.I'm so happy your doing well.Mike Helton is a kind hearted man and I'm sorry for all of you who lost a great dad and friend. We know your pain. It will never be the same.Thank-you for the show we love it.
Oh that brought back a bunch of sad memories very hard to deal with when you start talking about that and I know it had to be hard for you tell Junior so I appreciate you doing that we kind of needed to hear that I've never heard his perspective on it and I'm not sure that's the right word to use but you know what I'm saying that had to be a hard day on him and I would say he's a good man and a good friend thanks for sharing this with us God bless you
you can still hear the sadness in both of them when they speak of this. i followed nascar up until JR. retired i was a Dale SR.. and JR. fan it just is not the same without him. i do not watch anymore.
After losing my mother in an accident at 9-10 years old I can tell you I remember everything at that moment. The days after are a little vague. I have been unable to talk about it for years. Just in the last few years I have been able to. Those feelings never go away.
Watching both of them talk about it in such a way as to choose the right words to represent their feelings but also be respectful of eachother here, while holding their composure through it hit me right in the chest.
I consider Mike Helton is a very classy guy. Never met him but would be such an honor to do so if it ever happens. He the toughest job in the world to make the announcement that we all dread to hear.
When I retired from the military, one of the things on my wish list was a signed letter from Mike Helton. It is a very classy letter and hand signed on a NASCAR letterhead impression paper. It is framed and hanging on my wall. I always thought he was a class act.
i just cant imagine how mike felt knowing Dale had died and that he had to tell the world. its one of them moments you never forget, the look on his face, the way he was talking and them words 'we've lost Dale Earnhardt'. i hear them words often. it just sticks with you
Much like the late Charlie Whiting was in Formula 1, Mike Helton is one of those very rare people who really is irreplaceable, if just for all that he has done and all that he continues to do to this day. A true legend.
It's amazing that after 21 years, I can watch this interview and feel the same loss I felt in 2001. As an Earnhardt fan, it still rocks me. He was bigger than life to so many of us. I love the interviews and where they always lead is unexpected but always so good! Thank you ❤️ 🫂
Hey Jr, I know this episode, especially this segment had to be very hard for you. Myself and all the NASCAR fans commend you for the courage you displayed during this interview. We all know how much respected, looked up to, and most importantly how much you loved your dad, like all sons do. Especially sons who's father is their hero. Personally, and professionally, anyway I just want to say thank you and that you showed incredible courage.
When the first time I saw the title "We Just Lost The Greatest Driver We've Ever Had" I got choked up. That was the worst day, not just for me. But his family, his crew, his friends and for Dale Jr. and Mike Helton to discuss about it. It was very emotional for both of them. To me after that day, Nascar would never be the same. Yeah I still watch it. But not seeing #3 on the track that had Dale Earnhardt on it. It's just not the same. A date which will live in infamy February 18, 2001 and September 11 2001.
I can definitely agree with Jr when he said that if anyone had to deliver that horrible news, Mike was the perfect man for it. He gave it straight and you could tell he felt the pain from it way more than he let on. It would have been worse had anyone else told the world
I remember that day so well..I was home watching the race and there came Mike saying words. never in a million years expected to hear...I was in totally shock and then cried for days..Nascar will never be the same.. I also think Mike should be running Nascar now.
I was working at our hospital on the med/surg floor. . Every TV in every patients room was on the race/news. It set a tone of sorrow on our unit. The patients forgot about their own issues that night and was concerned for Dale and the family. It was a sad evening. It was a strange feeling on our unit that night.
I was 11 years old in 2001, and I had lost two grandparents when I was younger and didn't understand, but when my dad told me Dale Earnhardt died I cried over a death for the first time. I lost my hero, and at the same time understood what my parents felt when they lost one of their own parents. Today I can only hope to make my parents as proud as Sr. would be of Jr. today before I lose them.
Dale Jr is the bravest man I’ve ever known. I’m sure his dad would be so proud of that. Not because of this interview, this just seemed like a good time to express my thoughts on my only favorite driver other than Cale and Richie Evans.
Great episode, thanks for coming on Mike. As for the safety aspect, I'll second that on the number of lives saved by all the work done in the aftermath of Dales death. When I think of the safety improvements I always think back on Michael McDowell's horrific crash at TMS. If not for the SAFER barrier, safer cars, and the HANS that would have been a very different day.
My dad was a dale sr fan back when he started my dad is a one of a kind person i have seen him cry just a few times but the day dale died he called me And he couldent get it out with out crying dale ment alot to my dad. Im just saying that its vary rare for a person to have such a impact on peoples lifes with out ever meeting them He pulled for dale jr but things will never be the same god bless from wilkes boro nc im on my wifes youtube acc my name is michael and i just wonted to say that your dad was my hero and my dads i know he was yours. To me dale was nascar ill say that until the day i lev this world
Everyone who was alive at the time still remembers the moment when they heard that JFK had been assassinated. I know Dale Earnhardt wasn’t the president, and I’m not trying to compare him to one. But I’ll never forget the moment when that came on the TV. Couldn’t believe it. Almost still can’t. I’ll never forget Heltons words that day.
Thats so hard to watch without breaking down, we all look at these guys as "famous" people and its easy to forget they're real just like you and me. Thank to Jr. & Mike for this
I remember that day so clearly I was at work and we had the race on and when the wreck happened everyone just went silence.We just looked at each other I had a sick.feeling watching them at Dale's car. Then when they drove slowly away we knew we just started crying but we just felt like the worst had just happened right before our eyes.I watched Dale's Funeral on the TV it was a sick sad day.I didn't watch any races for awhile I just couldn't bring myself to do it.I don't know how Dale Jr was able to do all he did bless his heart...I am just happy that he and his family was alright after the plane crash...prayers💕
Mr. Helton handled it as well as anyone could have. He was professional, emotional, and concise.
Junior has a lot of class and guts. I lost my mother 2 years ago and I still can''t talk about it without tearing up. Dale Jr you are an inspiration.
Mom's n dad's r way different
Junior you have so much class,
I'm sure you realize how much all the fans needed to hear that too. 😅
My dad still isn’t completely over losing Dale. Dale was my dads super hero he couldn’t get enough of him. I’m surprising him here soon with a trip to the DEI museum. His memories live forever
I dont think anyone is or ever will be. I hope you dad enjoyed his trip to the DEI museum.
@@aussieoffroader1974 Nope I'll never forget the day the world lost Dale. He was a super hero to many. And I think that's why it was so shocking.
Did your dad Enjoy the DEI Museum Visit
That's the one thing I like about Dale Jr's podcast, he goes places you wouldn't expect him to go. Even the deepest places like the day his dad past away with Mike Helton man who broke the horrible news to the world. Very heavy interview!
I think it's natural. Folks have views or information concerning a loved one and you want to know. I get that he could ask these questions on a personal basis, but Dale Sr was/is a public figure to say the least, and folks want to know.
passed away
You can tell from this interview that Mike Helton still carries a heavy heart about that day, he's never fully gotten over the hurdles of it all and still carries it all to this very day. Bless his heart ♥We are with you on that Mr. Mike Helton!!!! Thank You Dale Jr for doing these podcasts, otherwise, the fans would never have gotten to know some of the details that you've aired about your dad that we the public didn't know. Take care, love to you and Amy and your sweet precious baby girls Isla Rose and Nicole Loraine ♥
Mike Helton should have become CEO, not Brian France
You are so right, I thought the same thing.
Same but unfortunately NASCAR is family owned by the France family.
I told my agree with that. NASCAR wouldn't been in the mess it's in if Mike had been in charge.
Zach Hatten Brian France killed NASCAR. He said he didn’t know anything about racing but he knew marketing. Not so much, it turns out.
Brian France is a dipshit
Damn that was rough. Thanks Jr for talking about a very tough subject for you.
Art Vandelay the internet is what you make it just like most things in life. I don’t often make mean comments, but I am truthful if I need to be. It’s all about the delivery and sometimes providing a little insight as to why you think, what you think, helps a ton. But rude comments by themselves are just that; a rude comment.
Junior wonders how Mike is talking about it, I'm sitting here wondering how Jr is doing it at all.
The answer you are seeking is "TIME". My father died suddenly & unexpectedly in a violent car crash in early 1984. I was 22 yrs old at the time. I also identified his body, about 90 minutes after his death. He died on the scene of the crash, within a moment or so from impact with an oak tree. Another motorist came driving along, evidently only a moment after it happened, and the gentleman told me my father was barely conscious, with his eyes completely shut, and mumbled a few "garbled" words that the fella couldn't understand, and then he expired right then & there. As you can probably sense, it really doesn't bother me at all to talk about it now. While everyone grieves in different ways from losing a loved one, time absolutely creates "a buffer" which enables most anyone to freely talk about the incident/loss years later, with little to no sadness. Of course that length of time to "heal and move forward" differs slightly for different folks. It really didn't take me too long, because my father had 5 sisters, and his mother still alive when he died, and it was VERY tough for them, he was "their hero".....so I had to remain strong for the family. I finally broke down about a month or so later. But after that, I was back to a normal state of mind and life. In a way, after so much time has gone by, it actually helps to discuss it with others. Because you have already done all of that grieving & coming to terms with it years ago. It may also help others who recently lost a loved one to realize that they WILL heal, and their life will continue, and get better.....again, with a little time. Even with the loss of your father/mother, or sibling. I believe the only exception is the loss of your own child. That is undoubtedly the worst loss anyone could experience. Far worse than suddenly & tragically losing a parent "before their time". My father was 42 when he was killed. I am now 57........so trust me, I know. Now that I think about it........both mine and my father's ages when he died were very similar to the ages of Dale Sr and Jr, back when his father died. But make no mistake, it HAD to be extra tough on Dale Jr back when it first happened, because all of those damned media hounds kept hitting him up about it for months, starting right after his death. The media hounds have NO respect towards others during such tragic times. They're only worried about trying to get "a cover story" to make their damned living. Probably asking him disgusting questions like "how do you feel about your father's sudden death?"..........It's despicable.
Howabouthetruth
Incredible reply to an awful situation. Sorry about your pops. Cheers to meeting again. And that’s the truth.
@@MrJc7998 Thanks for the kind words. It's ok, 1984 was a long time ago. I don't mind talking about it today, especially for all the young bucks who like to drink/party, and drive. That's the part I left out ( in this situation, comparing to Dale's untimely death, where "alcohol" played no role ).......my Dad and his drinking buddy were plastered. My Dad's buddy was driving my Dad's old Cadillac when they wrecked. I told family members that it didn't matter that "Dad wasn't driving".......because he had already totaled 2 other cars only months earlier, and walked away from both, which was a miracle in itself. Dad was tempting fate, and that oak tree "sealed his fate". His buddy spent nearly a year in a coma. ( This was on a remote 2 lane highway, way out in the middle of nowhere, in north Alabama. I got the call less than 20 minutes after that motorist drove up on the crash site. ) I'm absolutely sure that Dad was encouraging the high speeds. If I can save 1 life here and there by telling this story ( but not in this instance, ie: Dale's death while racing ) to young people, it's all worth it if I repeat the story a thousand times. Cheers to you as well my friend, and have a Blessed week.
Howabouthetruth
When you get there, have a beer, reflect, nothing more, nothing less. That stuff happens. We tempt faith daily, weather it’s your drink of choice or your smoke, or your diet. No judgment, he was judged as he went in.....he’s where he should be.... god speed
Jr handled it well, And everyone else because of this th-cam.com/video/hdQdLiCvOWQ/w-d-xo.html
Mike Helton is an absolute legend and a great person. We are so lucky to have him in the sport.
Mike Helton the man from NASCAR a man I respect who I think should be running NASCAR. Thank you Jr. I cant imagine how hard this is, for the both of you to talk about this.
Sr was my number one icon and legend but I will say this Jr is closing in on his iconic father! I enjoy listening to him more than most. Your father would be so damn proud of you and how you’ve evolved into a great man.
I feel bad for Ken Shrader who found Dale. His friend.
c103110a OMG totally agree he seen more then he is willing to ever admit just saying....
I also feel bad for sterling marlin for all the death threats he got. "Just a bad day" to quote Richard Childress.
@@williamcap2236 it was crazy all the people then and there still are a**holes who say that it was Sterlings fault and should have been Schrader and matter of fact there have even been people who blamed Jr
@@mikegrey5663 Jr? Why would they blame him? He didn't do anything.
@@millertime97jm I don't know why but there was someone who was blaming him. They said "Your father died because of you being greedy and finishing second. Should have been in third so you died instead of him."
🏁♥️🏁 I won’t ever forget that . I cried for three months. Wouldn’t even watch Nascar for a year . We did loose the greatest driver ever . Nascar just isn’t the same without him .
I was fortunate to go to 3 of the next 7 races after that. Being at Atlanta, did a lot to help me cope. Was a huge #29 fan that day
Was a Dale Jarrett fan
Colette, it affected me the exact same way! That next day, when I was finally alone, I cried INCONSOLABLY literally!
Still today, I can't wrap my head around the whole thing! Nascar hasn't been the same for me. Nowadays when I watch a race, it feels like I'm watching something thats for someone else, not me. I have an excluded feeling. Ole Dale, I think about him a lot.
But also, his passing opened my eyes about how much I idolized Dale. People don't think about the idolatry in sports. It's actually not a good thing
Also, @Art Vandelay just because Richard Petty says something doesn't make it fact but regardless, he only said best so how does that make Sr. not in the top 10?
YOU MIGHT THINK I'M CRAZY - But last year I was watching a tribute on SR. When a voice came over my shoulder, saying and I quote, ( Quit watching me race and get upstairs and be with you're family). My dad my brother and my nephew were upstairs, and yes it sounded just like Dale. TRUE STORY.
I bear a certain amount of guilt because I gave up on Nascar after Dale died. I love Dale Jr. and I'm proud of him for picking up the ball and running with it, but racing died for me on that horrible day in Daytona. R.I.P. #3.
It’s still raw enough that I feel the sting every time I see the black number 3 in old races on TH-cam.
The last king of the sport. When he died NASCAR went with it.
It’s crazy I was very young it’s one of my earliest memories. I couldn’t understand why he died while Tony Stewart survives his wild ride. Didn’t watch NASCAR since until this 2020 Daytona and wow Ryan Newman is lucky to be alive!
I will never forget that day. I worked for a local TV station and had my press credentials that allowed me access everywhere around the speedway. I just so happened to be standing on the inside wall looking down the super stretch from turn three. I had been taking pictures as the cars went by me. It was the last lap before Dale died when I snapped a picture of the 15, 8 and 3 cars nose too tail. It is an unbelievable photo. One I will cherish and hopefully be able to share it with Dale Jr.
I cannot stress enough how much courage it took for both of them to talk about this. It inspires me to be more open in discussing difficult things in my past. Thank you Jr., and thank you Mr. Helton for the wise words
❤
He essentially had to tell Nascar that Superman was gone. Whether you loved him or hated him he was Superman.
he wasnt even close to superman no sports star is either
He was the Intimidator.
@@NickyD you must be very young.
Nicky D your right, because Superman isn’t real, but dale lives forever
@@watchgoose nope 26 he isnt superman get real no sports star is superman
I remember being 6 and watching the race on Feb 18 2001. My dad and I were watching the race at the time and we were happy that MW won that race. But when Mike came up and said we lost Dale Earnhardt I remember crying a lot as a child, because my favorite driver was and is always been Dale Sr. Years later I find out my dad knew that Dale was gone when he saw Schrader waving his hand for the EMT guys to get Dale out of the car and when that ambulance was going slow to the hospital my dad said even he knew that Dale was gone. I watched NASCAR until Dale and Jeff retired. Granted Jimmy Johnson and Kevin Harvick still race and I watched every now and then. Thank you Dale Jr for many races and your skill. You are my favorite driver of all time, your father would’ve been proud of your career as a driver and you’re a hell of an interviewer and talk show personality. My upmost respect to you and your dad.
It was like a kick to the gut that I still feel from time to time
Well said
Dale sr was the best of the best, he loved Racing so much he took Nascar with him on that last turn. Nascar will never be the same without him...
Well said
One of the best shows you have done. Mike Helton is legend in my book. What he has done for our sport and the Nasacr family is amazing. Dale you sitting and discussing the worst day of your life and modern day racing. You both showed so much class and sincerity. God bless you both.
Lost for words over this interview. I know Jr. and Mike share a very special bond. Nothing but absolute respect for both of you. God bless you and your families. 🇺🇸👍
So hard to hear this....again. I'll never forget that day and the tears that I shed. I can't even listen to Garth Brooks "The Dance" anymore without crying. My memories of meeting your Dad will remain with me forever. What a great man....and the GREATEST driver!
I can't listen to The Dance either.
Why that song?
Not the first time, nor probably the last, this his podcast has brought on such emotion. For who I thought was a quiet, man of few words, he really is good at it.
Saddest day in NASCAR history. Prior to the accident it was the greatest single piece of driving I had ever seen. One man holding off the entire field so that his driver and his son could battle for the win. That performance to me was the most impressive performance I have ever seen. I think it has been overshadowed by the tragedy, rightfully so, but that really showed the talent of the greatest.
❤
I was in Daytona for this race. I was there with a group of Dodge dealers I was working for at the time as it was Dodge's return to NASCAR. we had pit passes and all hospitality passes. I was the only Dodge guy dressed head to toe in Earnhardt gear. Dale was my favorite driver and i didn't care that was there with the Dodge guys, i was going to show my Earnhardt colors. After the race we were in a large Dodge sponsored hospitality tent on the back stretch and the eerie quiet was surreal. I didn't know at that time that Dale had passed, but you could tell something wasn't right. There was a large screen TV with a still shot of Michael Waltrip after he won, but the quiet was telling. I'll never forget that day. its a day to remember like 9-11, something you don't forget where you where when it happened
Alot of us lost our hero that day. Definitely not a race goes buy I don't think of dale, he was the reason I went, watched and loved racing.
I remember hearing Mike on the radio. I couldn't believe it. Dale had been my driver for over 10 years. I don't know how I got through the week.
The last 20 seconds or so of this video is especially poignant, with Jr. thanking Mickey for everything he did for the Earnhardt family at the time of Sr.'s death, and also everything that Mickey did or tried to do after the accident. Jr. is and always will be a class act, and those 20 or so seconds are just a great example of why I feel that way about Jr..
That was rough even to this day for me. I saw your Dad race one time and he was my my driver. I haven't seen any driver who was as incredible driver and person that your Dad was. He was just an awesome person. He was only 1 of 3 people that I only would ask for a hand shake and nothing else.
Great episode!!! The day we lost SR is just like 911 to me. I will never forget where I was, what I was doing or the emotions I had.
Jesus I thought I was the only one, left the Toronto auto show , went to Hooters, saw the accident, once I got home my buddy called me and told me
yeah, that was a bad year
Amen brother
I was laying on my couch. My girlfriend had just Dr. John lettered me and moved out the Friday before. I had always been a fan of Nascar but didn't really watch it alot. That race was the 1st 500 I watched as an adult all by myself. I don't know who junior can control those emotions talking about his dad as good as he does. These videos will live forever... I'm so grateful Jr and his family got out of the airplane.. not sure the world wound be the same with a different outcome. #3 #9 #88
Its beyond crazy just contemplating that those events all took place in 01. Growing up through them at such an influential age, they both seem so recent and relevant in my mind when they are just under TWO FULL DECADES in the past.
When I was in the Army i was an EMT' so I knew what had possibly happened when I saw Kenny Schrader waving for the Track Safety Crew to hurry up....but on the TV when they showed the ambulance heading to the hospital I knew for sure what had happened as it was not moving at fast speed to save a life..when Max came on and confirmed it, I just broke down and cried, to write this it still brings tears to my eyes, for Dale was one of the best to ever turn a wheel in the sport, and was well loved and respected by the true fans of NASCAR weather you liked him or not! I know hes in good company in the "Great Beyond" as he was a totally different person off the track with that smile of his, he just had a way about him that just made ya want to like him, or try to be as good as he was!
The stories I have heard an read about him, he interviews he gave reflect that, a person who had a life long dream and actually got to live it! not many people can say that!
Let me just ask you this... there were two theories going around at the time of Sr.'s death re: the slow ambulance ride to the hospital... one theory is that Sr. was already gone and it was obvious, because of the extent of the injuries, that they weren't going to get him back no matter what they did, and another theory is that the ambulance was going slow because they were worried about a broken neck or back, and didn't want to "jostle" Sr. any more than they "had" to on the way to the hospital.
Do you think Sr. was already gone in the back of the ambulance? I have seen footage of them pumping his chest as they got out of the ambulance and went inside the ER < th-cam.com/video/iLDFXrUmbw8/w-d-xo.html > (Go to 1:09 of the vid, and you'll see the EMTs giving Sr. CPR on their way into the ER doors), and to me, they were going so far down on his chest that A.) it looked like he had a flail chest (so no matter what they did, it wasn't going to bring him back), and B.) they just wanted to be able to tell the family/NASCAR/the world, etc., that they did *EVERYTHING* possible to get Sr. back, but it just didn't work out.
Growing up Earnhardt was racing god in my house even such a hard thing to talk about thank you for all the stories and keeping the legacy alive Jr.
It's been 18 years since that day, and I still haven't heard anyone say the biggest factual words about it.
So I'll say it.. and I'm among the NASCAR world of fans who would know. So here.. NASCAR began to die, the day Dale died! Mark Martin said it best "Dale was the last cowboy ". His enormous personality, his swagger, his mystique. It wont be back for a long time, if ever!
And even though we still have another 7 time champ, when Dale died, Excalibur was placed back in the rock. And untill another king comes along, the sword will stay there.
Like I said Johnson is our 7 time champ now, and he's good no doubt, but as Merlin said to Uther..
"Your not the one"
RIP Dale
Heith Huffman There might be drivers that will win more races, and may even be someone that wins more than 7 Championships someday, but as you said, there will never be another Dale Earnhardt. The attitude, bravado and try to win at any cost just isn’t something we’ll see. Especially with how soft our society has become. This new generation of drivers won’t have to come up hard like Dale did, and I think that had a lot to do with the man and driver he became.
Without a doubt NASCAR suffered mightily the day Dale died. I think they can get some fans back with the right moves, but I’m not sure it will ever get back to it was in the 80’s and 90’s.
I am a big fan of Dale Sr n Dale Jr...I agree every word u said! Thanks for saying that to people, I said the same to people in the past some people didn't agree with me...I don't watch NASCAR as much as I use too since Dale died...God bless u🤘🤘RIP the #3 simply the best....
@Art Vandelay your all right.
except the Danica P being better than...
@Art Vandelay put the crack pipe down little buddy!💩🚽🖕🖕🖕🖕
So very well said Heith Huffman
I have so much love and respect for Dale Jr. Such a humble man.
Michael Helton Is a very good person, he is one of the many nice people I met in my during my time in NASCAR. Good Dude!
The opening statement was absolutely true in my case.
The first (and for many years the only) time I saw Mike Helton was when he had to make the announcement that the man I thought was immortal died that day.
Same here. I was at my then girlfriends house now my wife’s house eating pizza. When the news came out I just dropped my slice and couldn’t eat anymore. With 911 i had some strange events happen. I was on my way to work at 6 am. On the way to work I got sick and when I got to work I told them I had to go home. Laying there on the couch already feeling bad I watched 9/11 unfold, while my wife was work at the nearby air force base scared out of her mind. Both moments are still so clear in my memory.
Junior is a very good interviewer. He very gently guided him to elaborate more and share more details. He let him speak and didn’t constantly talk over him.
That day is burned into my memory. I was and still am a Dale Earnhardt fan. He was an influence on my life from the first time I saw him race in the early 80s up until today. He's always been a role model for me. I've gotten out of some dark spots in life because I would ask myself, "what would Dale do." And the answer always was "he'd keep going".
When I learned of Dale's passing, that was the longest 3 hour drive home from the dunes I've ever had, and I've been going out to the dunes for 20 years! #LongLiveSr
Jr. has turned out to be an amazing man. So thoughtful, understanding, inquisitive and gracious.
Its been 20yrs now 2021. I still remember the TV broadcast of this. I was at work. Back then I was still a jockey. I had 9 rides that day. I was super happy to be riding but super pissed that I'd miss watching the race.
I was riding in California. Got 4 wins and 2 seconds that day. (1 third a forth and a dead last after having to pull up a runner in the first race who bleed) .
I got off the horse in race 8. (Last win of the day). And my friend who also was a strapper for the trainer I rode for came over and instead of being happy and giving me a hug. She had tears in her eyes. She knew I loved NASCAR. I said what's wrong. She said it's not good. There's been a crash at Daytona.
And I said ok... Who's crashed. Not like Daytona doesn't have plenty of accidents. And she said Dale crashed. I was like well Dales gonna be pissed. I asked who won the race. She talked about Michael and Juniors 1-2. I thought well when Dale gets out of medical he's gonna be over the moon.
Went back to change and people in the riders room had turned on the tv. And people were moving over to watch. I went over and another jockey came past and said to me... It's not good . I think their making a announcement.
I just remember looking at the tv. And thinking why of all people take Dale.
I don't remember much that night I went out and got drunk as hell. People in the bar Noone was talking. People were stunned and shocked. They kept replaying that announcement on the news. Finally the bar owner turned the tv off. I'd never seen so many heartbroken people before in one place.
It's a day you never forget.
Dale and DW were always my fav. Drivers.
I remember the week after my little 5 year old cousin....Asking who my favorite driver was gonna be since Sr passed....He then said if I wanted he would share his favorite driver which was Bobby Labonte....I think it’s the one and only time we hugged was that Sunday of Rockingham....I politely turned his offer down and said I’m bitching my wagon full time to that number 8 Budweiser car
I'm a huge Jeff Gordon fan but I liked Dale.
Mike Helton is a great guy I remember him in my 20's back when the bond and friendship he had with Dale and to this day he still seems shell shocked and to be the guy to have the whole weight of the world put on his shoulders. He always was intimidating looking but inside he is a big teddy bear and u can tell he is still effected by that to this day. Very Emotional maybe dale jr and him can get together in private and find some closure together. 2001 was a horrible year all around and even for me personally in my life. I'm 39 now and still 2001 was like an impossible unbelievable nightmare that still rings in all Americans who went thru that year and the innocence lost in this whole country. I was in The Navy at that time so it was a real roller coaster. Became a Nascar fan in 1998 and just 3 years latter everything came crashing down. I had just returnrd from alon deployment with the USS cole when it got bombed and finally got home we al gathered up to watch the 2001 Daytona 500 all excited bout the future New Tv deal and Dale Sr made some very Ironic erie interviews that week that really spook u looking back at it
There are a couple of people here who've dissed Mike Helton. I don't know much about the man, but if Dale Jr. speaks highly of him, that's good enough for me.
I never knew who Mike Helton was until we got back to the hotel on that terrible day. My wife (a Jeff Gordon fan) and I were at Daytona in both 98 and 01. I've been a Dale Sr fan since my dad and uncle took me there in 1979, but, I think she took his death harder than I did!
I kind of feel like that even though there was a clear Earnhardt / Gordon rivalry that fans of either had immense respect for the other. I was always a huge Gordon fan but that day at Daytona gut checked me for a long time because regardless about who I rooted for I always had tremendous regard and respect for Dale Sr.
@@Ditmanppi Absolutely the same here. I grew up a Gordon fan. The "rivalry hate" was strong, but I dont think Ive ever cried so hard as that afternoon. The sport may have lost their god, but the world lost a great man, and I think the later is way harder to swallow then the former.
I remember that day like it was yesterday. As I watched this all play out on live television I knew what had happened and what the outcome was going to be. I kept telling my fiancé at the time and he just wouldn’t believe me. Miss Dale and the #3 car to this day and always will. RIP Dale!
I was at my favorite watering hole, watching the race. I did see the end of the race; did see the accident, but I had to go somewhere immediately after the checkered flag dropped, so I didn't know who was in the accident, nor did I know about their condition. I went back to the bar after I got done with whatever I was doing, and asked around who'd gotten in the accident, and how were they.
*My. Jaw. Dropped. To. The. Floor.* when I found out that it was Dale Sr. that had the wreck, and that he'd passed away. I just couldn't believe it. He seemed like one of the most invincible people in the world at the time, so, like a lot of people, I just figured nothing could hurt him. :(
I VIVIDLY remember that day. We had an exchange student and it was the only race my dad would let me watch (only had one tv in the house). The student needed to get a new pair of shoes so I drove him. We waited til the end of the race and I remember being so mad that dale crashed even though it was his team who went 1-2. I get home a little while later to this man's announcement and even my father cried. He KNEW I loved Sr. I wanted to see him race just one day, but we could never afford it. He felt bad but I cannot blame him. I cried for a few days. I won't lie. I didn't even talk to my girlfriend at the time. I. Haven't felt like that for racing since, but I still love the sport. I admire Jr for the man he became. How he utilized other skills in life to be something amazing, even if off the track. Still can't believe there's not an earnhardt out there on track, but I'm glad there's one calling the race. I got to see Jr race only one time in Phoenix, unfortunately, his car caught fire.
Hats off on how Dale Jr got through all of this and his career!
Thank you Dale for inviting so many awesome and important figures in motorsports onto the show. This was tough to listen to, but at the same time it seemed like a healthy thing for you guys to do, to talk to Mike about his side of the story.
There are things I could say about how it shouldn't have been allowed to happen in the first place. That too many drivers were allowed to die before more focus was placed on safety.
I just wouldn't have been able to do what he did that day; what knew he had to say to the masses. He gets my respect for that.
Thanks Jr. that was great to have Mike in and talk about that day. I'm sure you both will have more talks about that day. It was with out a doubt one of the toughest days for me as well. I can't imagine how you felt. You are always in my prayers.
Powerful episode. Thanks again for putting this together every week 🙏🏼
I have been a fan of this wonderful sport for over 35 years. When we were introduced to Mike Helton I was so impressed. He carried the job he did for sooo many years after that, I knew the sport was in great hands. I have the utmost respect for Mike Helton. I'm sure drivers didnt want to be called in the NASCAR hauler and face Mike. Ha As a fan I am so proud to be a fan of a sport that he played a huge factor in. Respect and wonderful stand up man is what I think of when I think of Mike Helton. He is a tremendous man and a tremendous leader. Thank you Mike.
This is the best podcast I've ever seen. Not just this episode.
It happened in the worst point in time in a lot of ways. First major NASCAR race broadcasted on a major sports network, and arguably the greatest driver in NASCAR gets killed on the biggest stage of stock car racing, in the biggest race of the year-the first race of the year, on the biggest sports network in America, in front of hundreds of thousands of people at the tracks and in front of millions watching live TV.
Sounds like, JFK in Daley Plaza Dallas.
The Pre-Taped interview with Terry Bradshaw.
Dale went the way he wanted to go he never wanted to retire from racing it was something in him that kept him wanting more and more i mean how many nascar drivers are almost 50 and still competing at that level dale was, if he was still alive today i bet he would still get in that car but dale jr would of been a better driver had his father not died , i think when dale died dale jrs racing heart wasnt in it anymore and as years went on more and more and dale jr close calls as well scared him
it speaks volumes that no matter how much time passes that reminiscing about this will bring tears to anyone that was involved or remembers that day
I just remember how during that announcement i got the feeling this was a sincerely genuine guy.
Nobody had their finger on the pulse of nascar Racing the way that bill France jr. Did, but Mike Helton was as close to the proper successor to bill than anyone else. A monumental task indeed to keep nascar heading in the right direction. He shared the vision that; mr.France and Dale sr. Hashed out during those fishing trips in the off season. I feel nascars compass was lost with the passing of bill France and Dale Earnhardt sr
When Dale died I was 19 at my dad's house watching the race with him. As long as I can remember my dad always called Dale god. About 5 minutes before the fatal crash my dad got a call the his dad just passed away. The next few days I found myself crying over Dale dying more then my own grampa. I just think it's crazy how Dale affected so many people just doing what he did. Thanks for the podcast Jr. It's great to hear all these stories
I wasn't even a Dale Earnhardt fan, but when I was also around 18 or 19, Dale Earnhardt did a meet and greet at a local Chevy dealership near me and I went up there, got to meet him real quick and got an autograph and a photo.
I think that shows you the gravity around that man. Respect.
Seeing all the pit crews line up to congratulate him when he won the Daytona 500, to me, is still one of the all time greatest sports gestures I've ever seen.
He was no god , smh , a bully yes !!
@Gene Maverick your delusional he was no bully he gave alot to charity and did things for others he was a good man
My first time attending a NASCAR race was at Charlotte in 1986. Dale had the field beat all day. He would pit and come back through the pack and lead a half a lap. I was a Waltrip fan but had to respect Dale after seeing this and became a fan of his too. The day we lost him hurt me and all I could do was wish him "God Speed" and move forward with the sport like he told Richard to do if anything ever happened to him. I believe he is with God now and God's word was on his dash because he asked Stevie Waltrip to write them for him like she did for Darrell.
Thank you Mr. Helton, for standing up and doing what no one wanted to say, or hear.
Thanks Dale Jr., I know that had to be rough to talk about. I'll never forget that week. I remember seeing the crash, but we had to go to church that evening before the announcement, so my dad told me on the way home. I still remember sitting in the back seat and hearing him say it, and being in tears most of the way home. Then, on Tuesday of that same week, my grandma passed away.
The same day we lost Dale Sr I got notified i lost a friend to cancer. Shittiest weekend I ever had
That's funny
:(
@@joshuaswinton9907 umm no
@@joshuaswinton9907 Wow, don't cut yourself with that edge.
Thank-you to all of you for what you bring on the table for nascar fans.We will never forget your dad. He was really special and a house hold name for us and many fans.Jr.I'm so happy your doing well.Mike Helton is a kind hearted man and I'm sorry for all of you who lost a great dad and friend. We know your pain. It will never be the same.Thank-you for the show we love it.
I might have seen my dad cry maybe two or three times in my life, and on the day we lost Dale he cried non stop. My daddy loved Big E.
Oh that brought back a bunch of sad memories very hard to deal with when you start talking about that and I know it had to be hard for you tell Junior so I appreciate you doing that we kind of needed to hear that I've never heard his perspective on it and I'm not sure that's the right word to use but you know what I'm saying that had to be a hard day on him and I would say he's a good man and a good friend thanks for sharing this with us God bless you
Man when he started talking about Teresa and Taylor I got watery eyed. I can see that vision in my head of how they felt😢
I lost my mom in 1994 and my dad in 2016 I miss them everyday
you can still hear the sadness in both of them when they speak of this. i followed nascar up until JR. retired i was a Dale SR.. and JR. fan it just is not the same without him. i do not watch anymore.
One of the worst days in my life, called in work sick the next day I was so bummed out.
Thanks for sharing 👍
@Art Vandelay 🖕
After losing my mother in an accident at 9-10 years old I can tell you I remember everything at that moment. The days after are a little vague. I have been unable to talk about it for years. Just in the last few years I have been able to. Those feelings never go away.
Mike I remember when you told us you did such a wonderful job I don't think anyone could have done better. Thank you for your love of the sport.
brings tears all over again.
Watching both of them talk about it in such a way as to choose the right words to represent their feelings but also be respectful of eachother here, while holding their composure through it hit me right in the chest.
My wife always says !!" Stop it!" Meaning evertything!!!
I consider Mike Helton is a very classy guy. Never met him but would be such an honor to do so if it ever happens. He the toughest job in the world to make the announcement that we all dread to hear.
When I retired from the military, one of the things on my wish list was a signed letter from Mike Helton. It is a very classy letter and hand signed on a NASCAR letterhead impression paper. It is framed and hanging on my wall. I always thought he was a class act.
I love the loyal Dale fans, they’re like none other...
i just cant imagine how mike felt knowing Dale had died and that he had to tell the world. its one of them moments you never forget, the look on his face, the way he was talking and them words 'we've lost Dale Earnhardt'. i hear them words often. it just sticks with you
I empathize with you. I watched the race and cried still cry when i see that crash.
Much like the late Charlie Whiting was in Formula 1, Mike Helton is one of those very rare people who really is irreplaceable, if just for all that he has done and all that he continues to do to this day. A true legend.
How. Hes been part of nascar's failures. He should of been fired years ago....
Miller well, blame France for that then. Not him.
Excellent comparison
Never forget that day, Im a pretty tough and rugged dude but tears rolled down my face when Mike made that announcement!!
Emmy award winning show right here, great job Jr!
That was a very good video Dale.. you and Mike did a wonderful job..
It's amazing that after 21 years, I can watch this interview and feel the same loss I felt in 2001. As an Earnhardt fan, it still rocks me. He was bigger than life to so many of us. I love the interviews and where they always lead is unexpected but always so good! Thank you ❤️ 🫂
Hey Jr, I know this episode, especially this segment had to be very hard for you. Myself and all the NASCAR fans commend you for the courage you displayed during this interview. We all know how much respected, looked up to, and most importantly how much you loved your dad, like all sons do. Especially sons who's father is their hero. Personally, and professionally, anyway I just want to say thank you and that you showed incredible courage.
When the first time I saw the title "We Just Lost The Greatest Driver We've Ever Had" I got choked up. That was the worst day, not just for me. But his family, his crew, his friends and for Dale Jr. and Mike Helton to discuss about it. It was very emotional for both of them. To me after that day, Nascar would never be the same. Yeah I still watch it. But not seeing #3 on the track that had Dale Earnhardt on it. It's just not the same. A date which will live in infamy February 18, 2001 and September 11 2001.
I can definitely agree with Jr when he said that if anyone had to deliver that horrible news, Mike was the perfect man for it. He gave it straight and you could tell he felt the pain from it way more than he let on. It would have been worse had anyone else told the world
I remember that day so well..I was home watching the race and there came Mike saying words. never in a million years expected to hear...I was in totally shock and then cried for days..Nascar will never be the same.. I also think Mike should be running Nascar now.
I was working at our hospital on the med/surg floor. . Every TV in every patients room was on the race/news. It set a tone of sorrow on our unit. The patients forgot about their own issues that night and was concerned for Dale and the family. It was a sad evening. It was a strange feeling on our unit that night.
Dale Jr is such a nice humble human being considering the whole legacy thing and the life story
Prayers for Jr and everyone involved. The toughest day has past.
I was 11 years old in 2001, and I had lost two grandparents when I was younger and didn't understand, but when my dad told me Dale Earnhardt died I cried over a death for the first time. I lost my hero, and at the same time understood what my parents felt when they lost one of their own parents. Today I can only hope to make my parents as proud as Sr. would be of Jr. today before I lose them.
Dale Jr is the bravest man I’ve ever known. I’m sure his dad would be so proud of that. Not because of this interview, this just seemed like a good time to express my thoughts on my only favorite driver other than Cale and Richie Evans.
Great episode, thanks for coming on Mike.
As for the safety aspect, I'll second that on the number of lives saved by all the work done in the aftermath of Dales death. When I think of the safety improvements I always think back on Michael McDowell's horrific crash at TMS. If not for the SAFER barrier, safer cars, and the HANS that would have been a very different day.
Derek Page very true..I remember that day..and thanked God and Dale Sr and Nascar for that safety barrier..
My dad was a dale sr fan back when he started my dad is a one of a kind person i have seen him cry just a few times but the day dale died he called me
And he couldent get it out with out crying dale ment alot to my dad. Im just saying that its vary rare for a person to have such a impact on peoples lifes with out ever meeting them
He pulled for dale jr but things will never be the same god bless from wilkes boro nc im on my wifes youtube acc my name is michael and i just wonted to say that your dad was my hero and my dads i know he was yours. To me dale was nascar ill say that until the day i lev this world
Everyone who was alive at the time still remembers the moment when they heard that JFK had been assassinated. I know Dale Earnhardt wasn’t the president, and I’m not trying to compare him to one. But I’ll never forget the moment when that came on the TV. Couldn’t believe it. Almost still can’t. I’ll never forget Heltons words that day.
Thats so hard to watch without breaking down, we all look at these guys as "famous" people and its easy to forget they're real just like you and me. Thank to Jr. & Mike for this
Damn straight we did. The late great Dale Earnhardt. The Intimidator. The Man in Black. Forever the Man!!!!
I remember that day so clearly I was at work and we had the race on and when the wreck happened everyone just went silence.We just looked at each other I had a sick.feeling watching them at Dale's car. Then when they drove slowly away we knew we just started crying but we just felt like the worst had just happened right before our eyes.I watched Dale's Funeral on the TV it was a sick sad day.I didn't watch any races for awhile I just couldn't bring myself to do it.I don't know how Dale Jr was able to do all he did bless his heart...I am just happy that he and his family was alright after the plane crash...prayers💕
I was in Platte City MO and I promise I’ll never visit that city without Sr in my mind.
Legends always live on