This message was edited on
January 08, 2011 at
06:48:03 PM by Racing From The Past
A couple of weeks ago, Mike Monatoboy of Lawton sent in some pics, with notes, and choice of music to honor Ralph. Then I got on the phone with Shane, looked up Ralph the best I could, and so on. Both guys brought me up to speed, so if any thanks needs to be given---thank Mike and Shane for pushing this through. It's an honor to be able to do what I get to do, right now.............
One thing that kept coming out was Ralphs stronghold on the midgets at OkC in 1968. He came in with a midget named "Marys Mink"-#66, owned by Scott Hunter. He capped off twelve wins in a row with that car and was proud of that until today. Great times for sure, winning races and having a son that looks up to you. Legit wins too, surrounded by a tough group of hombres.
I don't know the story of exactly why the car was named Marys Mink, but I'm betting the money was spent on the midget instead of an actual mink coat for a lady named Mary, presumably Scotts wife. Well, it all came together with Ralphs talent, Scotts car, and win number 12 at OkC.
Ralph was born and raised in the Wichita Falls , Texas area, his Dad being a farmer. His Dad bought the first midget Ralph drove, so the Father - Son bond in regards to racing, was already established in the Parkinson clan. It was only natural for Ralph jr to be there every chance he could. Both knew well the 'red dirt' that covered the area they grew up in.
All of this came together in my head, and this came out- a poem from those who cannot say goodbye right now, and Mike Monatoboys tribute to Ralph.
"Marys Mink"
Red dirt,
under my soles,
shake off the blues,
and hit the road,
for tonight.
It's gonna be a drive.
Got my pride,
right beside me,
he doesn't mind,
what I aim to be.
It's alright.
He claims the number "sixty five".
My dreams carry me in circles,
places that the world don't understand.
Leading me to an old fairgrounds,
sign my name and then I'll take my stand.....................
Red dirt,
in my soul,
find me a star,
show the way back home,
tonight.
It was a real good drive.
"Laid down the law",
twelve in a row,
Marys Mink,
we put on a show,
and my boy watches me run every time.
My dreams taking me in circles.
The entire world don't need to understand.
These roads lead me back to Texas,
the place where good 'ole boys become a man.......................
Red dirt,
under my soles,
find me a star,
show the way back home,
tonight.......................
It was a real good ride.............................
|
