Steve Byrnes

The NASCAR family lost a great man on Tuesday morning.  

Steve Byrnes, who had worked as a reporter within the NASCAR family for 30 years, died Tuesday after a year long battle with cancer.  Steve was seen as an inspiration to many within the community for his fight against cancer, but also the positive attitude he showed up until the day he passed.  Steve didn't give up easily - he fought with every ounce of strength he had.

I never had the privilege of meeting Steve.  I probably passed by him on several tours and adventures through the garage or pre-race areas that I've been fortunate to have been around.  My only interaction was on Twitter, where I would leave messages of encouragement to Steve during his battle.  He usually wouldn't have time to respond, but favorited several tweets.  While Steve had no idea who I was, or probably nost of the fans that sent him messages or tweets, I'm certain he appreciated the words of encouragement and love the fans showed for him.

One of the best moments was the Bristol race this past weekend I attended.  The race was renamed to honor Steve and to support Stand Up 2 Cancer.  Many drivers had Steve's name, or a "SPB" decal, which were Steve's initials, on their race cars.  Watching every pit crew member standing on the wall before the race began, most holding signs simply stating "I stand up for Steve" was touching.  Steve mentioned that he was watching the broadcast from the hospital and I'm sure was smiling.

Many of his colleagues have mentioned that Steve was a professional, but also a warm, gentle person.  He sounded like the kind of guy that would sit in a room and talk to everyone.  They also said that he would get his hands dirty when he needed to.  

Steve leaves behind a wife, and a 12 year old son.  My thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn his loss.  

Steve's last tweet Sunday night was in reference to the Cup race at Bristol.  It simply said "I went the distance".  Tuesday, Steve definitely went the distance.

Farewell, Steve Byrnes, and thank you for many years of entertaining and informing us.

#ByrnesStrong