I was shocked and saddened to read the news today of the death of former World Rally Champion Collin McRae.

McRae was not particularly well known in the United States, unless you might have played his awesome racing videogames, but he was an international racing icon, having participated in the World Rally Championships from 1987 until 2004.

If you are a NASCAR fan, as I am, and have never watched the WRC, you are missing out. Real cars, real roads, hairpin turns, high speeds, and the constant anticipation of the unexpected make Rallycar the most exciting motorsport in my opinion. In addition, oftentimes the spectators actually become part of the action, as there are rarely fences involved in Rally.

Collin McRae and his wicked Subaru are what got me hooked on Rally a number of years back. While McRae's driving career has given way to younger drivers, he has remained an ambassador for motorsports of all kinds. He will certainly be missed.

God bless Collin McRae.