Race car driver succumbs to injuries following a crash on Friday night
Tim Erjavac competed in the figure 8 event at Sycamore Speedway on Friday night. The track is a multipurpose facility located in Maple Park, Illinois.
Police and medical responded to the incident around 11:20 p.m. Initial reports stated the man was trapped inside the race car.
With aid from the safety crew, the driver was removed from the cockpit. He was then transported to Kishwaukee Hospital where he later succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash.
There were two events remaining on the ticket for Friday night following the crash. However, due to rain and the on-track injury, officials canceled the remainder of the event.
The track is set to resume action tonight for night two of the weekend program. The oval track is set to host Super Late Models, Street Stocks, Pure Stocks, & Hornets Racing. As of a few hours ago, that event is still scheduled as planned.
Sycamore Speedway statement
With the Cooperation of Maple Park & Countryside Fire Department and Sycamore Speedway Staff, Tim Erjavac was Safely removed from his RaceCar and transported to Kishwaukee Hospital.
Tonight, July 13th, 2018, during the Figure 8 event of the Friday Night Program a collision between two race cars caused the need for medical support and transportation.
Due to the incident and the rain storm that was upon the Maple Park area, Sycamore Speedway Management canceled the two remaining events of the night.
Sycamore Speedway Management sends their thoughts and prayers as Mr. Erjavac recovers.
Sycamore Speedway is grateful to the Maple Park & Country Side Fire Department for the speedy response time and tirelessly efforts during a torrential rain fall to insure the safety of Mr. Erjavac
At this time we ask that everyone please keep Tim in your thoughts and prayers.
Sycamore Speedway will continue forward with the July 14th program. If Tim wishes Sycamore Speedway to update fans on his recovery. Sycamore Speedway will provide updates or respect his privacy as he heals.
Update
The race track posted the following update 3 hours ago:
Sycamore Speedway regrets to inform that Mr. Tim Erjavac has passed.
The Sycamore Speedway Race Family sends their condolences and ask that everyone keeps Mr. Erjavac’s family in their thoughts and prayers at this time.
A Racers Prayer
By Kay Perdaris
Before I start my engine, Lord, I need
to talk to you
And Humbly ask your blessing for
what I’m about to do.
I give you all the credit, for it’s only by
your grace
That I have reached this starting line to run another race.
The road that lies before me now,
uncertain it may be,
But I can face this challenge, Lord, if
you will ride with me.
Prepare my heart and give me
strength; protect me from all harm.
With ever present danger hold me
safely in your arms.
Lord, bless my competition, my
friends and family.
May they know your love for them
and see that love in me.
Please guide my way, direct my path,
keep my perspective true.
And Lord, remind me in this life that
all roads lead to you.
And should I cross life’s finish line,
please know I’ve done my best.
Oh Lord, have mercy on my soul and
grant eternal rest.
I pray your perfect will be done, for
when I see your face,
Lord, all that you will judge me on is
how I’ve run the race.