We were running a major drag race event there and it was getting late. The sun was down and the temperature was dropping. Pro Stock cars were running and they can be twitchy at times, especially when the traction starts to lessen on the track. In quick succession, we had two cars lose traction and crash. (No injuries.). As we were cleaning up after the second crash, Jim radioed to the officials in charge that the dew was settling on the track, making it slick. The officials in charge never want to stop the event prematurely because there is loss of revenue, need to reschedule some of the cars, general complaining, etc.  So, they asked over the radio if it would help if we were to run the jet track dryer over the track. Knowing that would be a temporary and futile effort, Jim said, “I don’t think we should be running cars.”  I know darn well that the officials didn’t want to hear that but Jim had the fortitude to tell them the right thing to do. There was a brief silence over the radio, then this announcement:  “Attention everyone on channel; we are done for today.”  Thank you, Jim; the equipment, and possibly lives, that you saved is inestimable. 

Teri, I am so sorry to learn of Jim’s passing.  I have only the fondest of recollections about Jim.  He was one of the few NHRA workers that was always kind to me.  His sense of humor I found delightful.  He was the only one to offer me solace after a major unfortunate incident took place.  He never complained or griped at me when I needed something from him.  Getting to see him and have lunch with him in San Antonio about 10 years ago was a treat.  As you miss him, I will miss him in my own way.

I’m so sorry for your loss Teri, Jim was one of the best people I know!  But he also had another son, Mark Christopher Caslin who loved him very much and I’m sure Jim loved him!