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Beverly Ann Race, known to her multitude of friends as BJ and wife of Harley left us after an almost week long stay in the hospital. BJ had just turned 60 the 9th of this month and so many of us who called her friend were shocked and dismayed. BJ was a wonderful friend whose passing leaves a big void for many of her friends and a huge one for husband Harley who she loved with all her passion and was very much a true partner in life and his rock.
My wife and I were honored with sharing the Race household on several occasions and always felt as if we were at home. BJ, like myself an early riser would sit with me while our spouses slept and chat over coffee about everything under the sun. When she and Harley spent time in our home I always brought a supply of Hazelnut java and creamer which it seemed we both enjoyed.
As sweet, friendly and down to earth as this elegant woman was; she could also turn the page and be a hardnosed business person utilizing her banking background to see that World League Wrestling got the fair shake when making a deal. As soft and understanding as she was while helping her husband in every facet of their lives, my buddy BJ had Harley’s back every step of the way and I’m sure she fought her illness with the same focus, passion, and determination that she used in being the Hall of Famer’s wife.
BJ Race has physically left us, but her memory and smile will be brought to the forefront often by those who were fortunate enough to call her friend. She was indeed a Hall of Fame friend, and wife.
I’m sure my buddy and friend and mom to so many is at rest in heaven, and I’ll remember with fondness our chances to laugh together and the early morning conversations. BJ know that you were loved and respected during your journey through life and those of us whom you touched are better for it.
I was told of the beautiful tribute given BJ this past Monday in Eldon where hundreds including former students, wrestlers, city officials and Noah executives all the way from Japan turned out to say goodbye. I truly wished I could have made the trip, but this will have to be my sad farewell to my beautiful friend. I also want to thank Combat Zone Wrestling for the ten bell salute they did this past Saturday night. It was classy of that organization.
If you would like to join us in honoring Mrs. BJ Race, then do as my wife and I are doing and send a donation in her name and memory to the “Eldon Community Food Pantry” 312 East Second Street Eldon, Missouri 65026.
As those who read this column know I spent this past weekend with the crew of CZW at The Arena in Philly for a training camp. It went well and I was pleased that several of the young men attending used some of our training during their matches on the Saturday evening show.
Now here’s the deal and the highlight of that trip. I am well aware of the reputation that Combat Zone Wrestling is built on, and got exactly what I expected as the show moved toward completion. Flip, flop, and fly, weapons, hardcore, and blood; but the match that stood the entire building on their feet for its final five minutes was the main event featuring CZW World Champion Drake Younger defending his title against my homey B-Boy. These guys simply flat out wrestled their collective butts off and tore it up. It is one of the best executed matches I have seen this year. Now someone somewhere will say people don’t buy that any longer but after nine matches of everything else but the kitchen sink ( and they would have used that had it been at ringside) this was the only, and I mean only bout that woke that entire arena up and had them emotional involved right won to the wire. It was the classic slow build to the climax and I loved it!
My hat is off to these tow guys, and I hope to see more of the same when I return there in the spring.
CZW’s new owner, DJ Hyde is a very serious young man who wants to take this company where he started his career to the next level and has a lot of work ahead of him; but I believe he is on the right track and wish him all the very best. When the DVD of this show comes out by all means get it and check out the great main event title match.
This seems to be a bad week all around. I just heard of the passing of Captain Lou Albano and want to send my most sincere sympathy to his family. I didn’t know Lou well as we only met on one occasion; however I am well aware of what he gave to our industry over the years, and his contribution was huge.
Train hard and master your craft.
Till Next Time,
Les
For a unique training experience and to up your game book your seminar or
weekend training camp with Elite Pro Wrestling Training. EPWT’s instruction is
based on the principles of the founders Harley Race, Ricky Steamboat, Les
Thatcher, and former staff member Dr. Tom Prichard. To learn more about the
company go to www.epwt.com. To book a seminar or training camp contact Les at
les@epwt.com.
Get your copy of “The Professional Wrestler’s Workout & Instructional Guide” by
Harley, Ricky, Les, and Alex Marvez published by Sports Publishing LLC at your
local bookstore, or the PWInsider Super Store.
Harley Race will be appearing at these World League Wrestling events. 11/14
Keokuk, IA. 11/21 Richmond, MO. For details go to
www.harleyrace.com.
Thanksgiving weekend Les returns to the Gulf Coast and Pascagoula, MS. For a
weekend training camp and show November 27th, 28th, 29th. For information
contact John Saxon at johnsaxon4@yahoo.comor call 228-327-7098.
Join Les and host Rich Tate every Wednesday night at 9: PM EST with their
special guests for “Peach Pandemonium” by clicking on
www.georigiawrestlinghistory.com .
