A tragic incident occurred at Martinsville Speedway, where a crew member associated with the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour lost his life following an accident in the garage area. Wayne Anastasia, aged 65, was a dedicated member of the No. 46 Russell Goodale team and had been a prominent figure in the Whelen Modified Tour for many years.
The unfortunate event took place on October 26, during a practice session for the Virginia Is For Racing Lovers 200, a pivotal race in the Modified Tour series. Witnesses reported that Anastasia was navigating through the garage when he accidentally stepped into the path of a moving Modified vehicle. The impact caused him to be thrown backward, resulting in a severe head injury after he struck the ground.
Emergency personnel responded swiftly, performing CPR at the scene before transporting him to a medical facility for further treatment. Despite the efforts of medical staff, Anastasia succumbed to his injuries and passed away on Saturday, November 2.
NASCAR released a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of Anastasia, expressing condolences to his family and friends. The statement highlighted his passion for racing and his significant contributions to the sport. “NASCAR mourns the passing of Wayne Anastasia, a member of the NASCAR Modified Tour family and a fixture in the garage for many years. Simply put, Wayne was a racer, and he will be dearly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Wayne’s family and friends at this time,” the statement read.
Anastasia’s dedication to the sport and his long-standing involvement in the NASCAR community made him a respected figure among his peers. His commitment to the Whelen Modified Tour exemplified the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie that is foundational to motorsports.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks that crew members and participants face in the high-octane environment of motorsport. As the NASCAR community reflects on this tragedy, many are coming together to honor Anastasia’s legacy and contributions to the sport.
As the racing season draws to a close, the impact of this loss is being felt throughout the community, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of Anastasia. The support from fans, fellow crew members, and drivers alike showcases the tight-knit nature of the racing world, where such tragedies resonate deeply.
In light of this event, NASCAR and the teams are likely to review safety protocols to ensure the well-being of all personnel involved in racing activities. The safety of crew members is paramount, and this incident highlights the importance of vigilance and awareness in the fast-paced environment of motorsports.
Wayne Anastasia’s passion for racing and his commitment to the Whelen Modified Tour will be remembered by those who knew him and by the many who shared the track with him. The racing community continues to extend its thoughts and prayers to his family during this difficult time.
