Sad news as one of the voices of the popular “Thunder” short-track series, Gary Lee, passed away on Monday. He was 63. More here from the Indianapolis Star’s Curt Cavin.
Here’s a quick video of the first “Thursday Night Thunder” show, from 1988, where Lee anchored alongside veteran open-wheel driver Steve Chassey.
Reactions have already started coming into the news. Here’s a quick roundup.
“Gary Lee was one of the most passionate supporters of all types of auto racing from grass roots competition to the international stage of the Verizon IndyCar Series. The enthusiasm and excitement his voice conveyed to the radio listener and television viewer added much to the drama and excitement of our sport. As a former member of the IMS Radio Network broadcast team, Gary helped deliver legendary moments of the Indianapolis 500 to millions of listeners around the world. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and legion of fans. He will be missed.” -J. Douglas Boles, Indianapolis Motor Speedway president
Sad to hear about Gary Lee’s passing. He was a special friend & very important part of @ESPN‘s “Thunder” broadcasts. pic.twitter.com/ukKtApTrVS
— Jeff Gordon (@JeffGordonWeb) July 15, 2014
Sad to hear of the passing of Gary Lee… RIP Gary!
— Ralph Sheheen (@ralphsheheen) July 15, 2014
Sad to hear about Gary Lee. Some of my favorite memories are racing with @JeffGordonWeb on Thursday Night Thunder and seeing Gary. — Andy Graves (@AndyJGraves) July 15, 2014
Sad news. Indy broadcaster. Sat Night Thunder on ESPN too MT @EliGoldBama: RIP Gary Lee. Was always quick w/smile. 1 of the nice guys in biz — Bob Pockrass (@bobpockrass) July 15, 2014
RIP Gary Lee. Was always quick with a smile. One of the nice guys in the business.
— Eli Gold (@EliGoldBama) July 15, 2014
“@curtcavin: Gary Lee, motor sports broadcaster, 63 http://t.co/ET6XeY4g5M” Terrible news. Always enjoyed talking w/ Gary. Great broadcaster
— Kevin Lee (@KevinLee23) July 15, 2014
My condolences to everyone in the racing world who is hurting tonight. I never knew Gary Lee, but have many friends who did. Rest in peace. — Pippa Mann (@PippaMann) July 15, 2014
RIP and Godspeed to a mentor and dear friend. I’ll miss you Gary Lee. pic.twitter.com/aNLL8ZAhhx — Mark Jaynes (@JaynesMar) July 15, 2014