NH Legend gives emotional tribute to John Force at us Nationals the end of an era few names resonate as profoundly in Motorsports as John Force this year the US Nationals at Lucas Oil Indianapolis raceway Park sponsored by Toyota hold a Bittersweet note as it coincides with Force's sad absence the event a Prelude to the countdown is without force due to a traumatic brain injury he sustained in a near fatal accident near Richmond Virginia John Force a Titan of the drag racing world has left an indelible mark on the US Nationals clinching five funny car victories and competing a staggering 43 times his presence has been a constant at what he once described as the biggest drag race in the world this year however his Peak Chevy Camaro is under the capable hands of 2012 funny car champion Jack Beckman as Force focuses on recovery the absence of the racer has echoed throughout the racing Community with fellow racer Ron caps expressing a poignant acknowledgement of Force's impact already we're getting a glimpse of NH without John Force caps reflected via Oto week throughout history we've had these Heroes SL icons of the sport that have pretty much carried the sport through certain periods of its time going way back and certainly when you look back years from now you're going to see that snake and the Mongoose and Don garlets and the Greek Chris car my scenes and the ace you're just talking about all the people that have had a stamp on nh's History it's hard to top what John Force has done and it's very strange not having him around at the racetrack for me especially as tight as we've been and how much he's meant to me as a person on and off the racetrack but he's a foe as well it's been some unbelievable matchups every time we come up it's interesting to hear the people on TV talk about how many times we've met before whether it's a final round or for championship or just head-to-head it's a lot everyone's on pins and needles just wondering when he'll get back out he added but for me it's going to be a great sight the first time we have him back at the racetrack whether it's just hanging out or riding around on the scooter and coming up and talking to me on a Friday before a first qualifying run stepping into Force's shoes Jack Beckman is optimistic about making a strong showing at this year's Nationals there were four National events at Indie but only one US Nationals and I left with the trophy fast forwarding to today he's piloting what he considers the baddest race car in the pits aiming to clinch a victory as a tribute not just to his capabilities but to his legendary car owner John Force while the racing team carries on the void left by Force's absence is palpable his storied career and personal battle with his recent health challenges have left everyone rooting for not just his recovery but also a celebratory return as this season's us Nationals unfold without one of its most celebrated Champions we'll make sure we spare a thought for one of the greats and his quick recovery [Music]