Motorsports' reaction to the death of Bill France Jr. (cont'd)

Edsel B. Ford II -- Board of Directors, Ford Motor Company

"Bill France Jr. was more than a good friend of mine. He was a legend in motor racing. NASCAR and motor racing worldwide would not have seen the growth and prosperity it has without Bill's vision and determination. He single-handedly made it the reality it is today by understanding what the fans wanted and by creating an environment where on-track competition was king. Bill also understood and encouraged the automobile manufacturers to become a major part of the sport.

"I personally loved the opportunities I had to sit with him, discussing racing, business and family. He had a wonderful perspective on everything going on around him. Everyone at Ford, and me personally, lost a great friend today."

Jim Aust -- president and CEO, Toyota Racing Development

"It is with great sadness that we learned today of the passing of Bill France Jr. His vision and determination played a critical role in guiding and developing the sport of NASCAR into what it is today. We join with all members of the NASCAR family in remembering a great leader and in sending our condolences to the France family."

Richard Childress -- owner, Richard Childress Racing

"Bill France Jr. was not only a leader in our sport but he was also a very good friend. Not only did he teach me a lot about our sport but he taught me numerous lessons about life.

"Over the last several years, NASCAR has grown to an unprecedented level of popularity. None of that would have been possible without the vision and leadership Mr. France provided. My thoughts and prayers go out to Betty Jane, Brian, Lesa and the entire France family.

Denis McGlynn -- president and CEO, Dover Motorsports Inc.

"The entire Dover Motorsports family offers its sincere condolences to the France family and the NASCAR community. Today's race at Dover was run with heavy hearts. Bill France Jr. was an innovator, and through his vision for the sport of NASCAR, those associated with the sport today continue to reap the benefits of the groundwork laid by Mr. France."

Dean Kessel -- director, Nextel Cup Series marketing for Sprint Nextel

"It is with the passing of one of NASCAR's greatest icons that Sprint Nextel joins millions of fans in grieving today. Bill France Jr. orchestrated the transformation and fostered the growth of NASCAR to the heights it enjoys within the world of sports.

"He did so with passion and an uncanny business sense that put the interest of fans as utmost importance. That will forever be his legacy. Our thoughts and prayers are with Betty Jane, Brian, Lesa and the entire France and NASCAR families."

Robin Braig -- president, Daytona International Speedway

"As a former Daytona International Speedway president, Bill France always kept a keen eye on the track that his father Bill France Sr. founded and built. I have been honored to have his guidance and experience at my disposal during my tenure as track president.

"Bill France was a great ambassador to the sport and under his watch, led unparalleled growth for Daytona International Speedway, International Speedway Corporation and NASCAR. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family at this time."

Dan Davis -- director, Ford Racing Technology

"Everyone involved in the Ford Racing program is thinking of the France family and wishing them the best at this very difficult time. There's no way to put into words how much Bill France Jr. meant to NASCAR and auto racing in general, because if it wasn't for him, this sport obviously wouldn't be where it is today.

"He wanted to take NASCAR from a regional sport to something that is followed worldwide, and with great determination, he made that vision come true. Every sport needs a strong leader at the top in order to be successful and no organization had a man that stood taller these last four decades than Bill France Jr. We will truly miss him." (Continued)