Speak Up: Sports roared back at Dover's Monster Mile 12 days after attacks
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Two decades later, Jim Hosfelt choked up continues to get choked up at the searing memory. “I still get emotional when I think about it,” he said, recalling 12 days after Sept. 11, 2001, when the Monster Mile hosted the first major sporting event since the deadly terrorist attacks on the United States. After postponing the New England 300 on Sept. 16, the Winston Cup schedule resumed for about 140,000 fans in Dover with the MBNA Cal Ripken Jr. 400.
- What an incredible race that was. Cal Ripkin was grand marshall. Dale Jr. was the winner with his helmet painted/designed to look like a baseball. This was the same year that his father, Dale Earnhardt Sr., died during the Daytona 500 in February. The first large capacity event after the profound tragedy of 9/11/01 with many changes, but we true fans didn't mind because everything — EVERYTHING — about that event meant, well, everything. — Cindy Ennis
- It sure was the most incredible Dover race I experienced — ever. Very emotional. Now flood gates have opened up again today. I will never forget standing next to lil E and the Bud crew pit box, looking out into the packed stands, seeing all the American flags waving and the patriotism that day. — Beth Poore
- I was there, and the atmosphere was awesome. Love my country — Karen N Ronnie Cahall
