| As many of the drivers from the early years of | | | | primary source for research in today's world. One |
| the sport were already retired or nearing | | | | can often find mention by name and some |
| retirement, television and big money sponsors | | | | statistics, but less often photography, of the |
| exploded the popularity of stock car racing. These | | | | legends of auto racing. In addition to photos, |
| drivers raced on the short tracks of America, | | | | videos, and biographies, RacersReunion.net |
| some sacrificing all else, for the shear love of the | | | | provides an opportunity to communicate with the |
| sport. Their popularity depended upon the loyal | | | | heroes of racing history and to learn where they |
| fans who watched them in person, read of their | | | | are today. |
| exploits in newspapers and publications, or listened | | | | RacersReunion.net was founded by Jeff Gilder, a |
| to radio broadcasts. They are often overlooked | | | | former race car driver and track champion who |
| by today's news media in favor of modern day | | | | raced on short tracks in Northeast Tennessee |
| racing heroes. While today's race car drivers are | | | | and Southwest Virginia. He attributes his racing |
| certainly deserving of their celebrity status, many | | | | success to the tutoring of a veteran racer by the |
| fans, young and old, still seek information about | | | | name of Paul Lewis. Lewis has made an effort to |
| the veterans who founded the sport. | | | | recognize the contribution of veteran racers with |
| RacersReunion.net provides the medium for | | | | an annual event called "Racers Reunion" that is |
| compiling information, photography, and video | | | | held each Mother's Day weekend as has been the |
| accounts of veteran racers in one location. | | | | case for the past 12 years. RacersReunion.net is |
| The internet has become one of, if not the | | | | an extension of Paul Lewis's efforts. |