The accident left him with hemorrhages in both eyes and a concussion. He has fully recovered from both, but doctors and family effective ended his driving career.

“It (the accident) rung my bell pretty good,” he said. “It was about a week before I could walk without hanging onto something, I was dizzy. It was two months before I could really think straight.”

Married, Mike and wife Tammy have three daughters — Randi, a senior, in the University of Oklahoma marching band, Monica, and Cayla.

North-South Modified Shootout

The North-South Modified Shootout is the major attraction on the agenda tonight at Outlaw Motor Speedway as the track celebrates Memorial Day.

The North-South shootout will bring Modified drivers from around the region to compete and claim the North-South Champion as they race in three states in three days. The challenge moves to Fort Smith, Ark., on Saturday and Monett, Mo., on Sunday. A bonus of $2,500 will added to the purse for the top five drivers (average points for the three races).

“We’re expecting 50 Modifieds for the race,” said track manager Eric Shannon. “It’s huge event and we’re excited to be a part of it.”

Racing at Outlaw starts at 7 p.m. with hot laps. In honor of Memorial Day, those in the military and veterans will be admitted free.

Also on the agenda is the “Human Cannon Ball Dummy” drop. Strapped inside a car, he will drop 75 feet to the ground in a vehicle hanging above the infield, held by a crane.