[Gary Smith]

Just learned of Ken Dondero's passing this weekend. Ken was a special person in a lot of ways, who took me in like a nephew when I was young, and had the patience of a saint like no other racer at the time. If it weren't for him I'd have never had the opportunity to meet so many of the sports legends back in the day. I have more stories to tell about the times being around him, getting in his way & how he would answer my never ending questions, even when he was getting ready to make a pass & under pressure to perform. I'll never be able to thank you enough for all the experiences you provided for a skinny little kid with big dreams. RIP Ken.