LOUDON, NH - JULY 15: Bob Bahre, Chariman of the Board of New Hapshire International Speedway, responds to question form the media at a press confrence to announce a new five year sponsorship by Osram Sylvania for the September NASCAR Nextel Cup Series race, prior to practice for the NASCAR Nextel Cup Series Lenox Industrial Tools 300 on July 15, 2006 at New Hampshire International Speedway in Loudon, New Hampshire. (Photo by Rusty Jarrett/Getty Images for NASCAR)

LOUDON, N.H. – Following are statements from Speedway Motorsports executives on the passing of New Hampshire Motor Speedway founder Bob Bahre:

Bruton Smith, Speedway Motorsports Executive Chairman:

“Bob Bahre was a true pioneer for motorsports in New England. He wanted to grow our sport and build things that people will remember. He was a smart businessman and I have a lot of respect for that, but I have even more respect for the positive impact he had on people. I’ll pray for Sandy and Gary during this tough time, and I know they are proud of the legacy Bob leaves behind.”

Marcus Smith, Speedway Motorsports President and CEO:

“What I’ll remember most about Bob Bahre will be his character, understated yet charming. Every time I saw him he had on khakis and a white shirt. I always enjoyed our genuine conversations. He was very generous to people in the motorsports industry and to the New England communities where he did business. He went about things in a quiet, dignified manner and often times that simple approach is the most impactful. It’s truly an honor to have known Bob. He lived a meaningful life. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. “

David McGrath, NHMS Executive Vice President and General Manager:

“On behalf of our team at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, I’d like to extend our deepest condolences to Sandy, Gary and the entire Bahre family. Bob left an incredible mark on auto racing through the New England region, and his love of motorsports was legendary. He had a passionate commitment to both drivers and race fans, and that commitment was evident when he built our facility in 1990. I am proud to have known Bob. It was a true pleasure to have spent time getting to know him and learning from him over the years. He will be missed, but his legacy of supporting and building motorsports in New England will live on forever.”

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