Scott Kalitta

Scott Kalitta was a professional funny car driver who died in a fiery crash at the National Hot Rod Association Super Nationals at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park in New Jersey on June 21, 2008. His car, a Toyota Solara, was reportedly traveling at a speed of over 300 miles per hour when the engine exploded.NJ.com: Driver Killed in Crash at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park (June 21, 2008)

A year after Kalitta's death, the NHRA returned to Old Bridge Township Raceway Park. In view of Kalitta's accident, the race was officially shortened from a quarter-mile to 1,000 feet, among other safety measures.LA Times: Remembering NHRA driver Scott Kalitta

Kalitta had eighteen career victories in the sport and was twice named a Top Fuel Champion. Kalitta began his career in 1982 at the same race track at which he perished.

Several of Kalitta's fellow racers posted tributes to him on the official website of the National Hot Rod Association.

• "He died doing what he loved, and by that I don't simply mean he was racing. He was where he was supposed to be, at the race track, in his car, keeping his foot down and doing all he could to put his Funny Car into yet another super-tough field, and he did it on the last lap he ever made."—Bob Wilber

NHRA.com: Just a Few Words...

• "If there's a heaven, and I believe there is, Scott's saddling up next to Eric Medlen right now, with Blaine and Darrell next in line, on a quarter-mile of smooth, tacky racetrack."—Phil Burgess

NHRA.com: So long, Scott ...