Layers Of Earth

Typically stoic, methodical and precise. Veins filled with freon, eyes focused and unwavering. Like a test-pilot or a daring astronaut, Michael Schumacher seemed always to be in the midst of quiet calculations despite the ever-present dangers that surround him. But alas, even robots cry.

The demeanor that has become the stoic public identity of Schuie cracked a little on Sunday as his announced that this will be his final season in auto racing. The political aspects of this announcement notwithstanding, this was obviously a tough moment for Herr Robot. An amazing career coming to a close often is sad. These kinds of announcements usually bring a few tears, but one never figured Schu for the long farewell. Circumstance, driver contracts and politics dictated this announcement’s timing, which seemed a bit too public for Michael’s comfort level.

Something tells me that the robot would have rather finished the final race and jetted off to some island where he could announce the end of his career via press release. But the man knew that the people deserved more than a press release. We needed a chance to close out his career with him, to celebrate and share in his accomplishments.

Personally, I will always remember two things about Michael Schumacher. One is a drive, a fantastic one in the 1994 Spanish Grand Prix when he raced for Benetton, finishing up 2nd to Damon Hill in a car that only had 5th gear. The second thing, and probably most amazing, was his contributions to charity following the Christmas Tsunami of 2004. His personal contribution of $10 million surpassed those of all of America’s superrich sports stars and sports organizations combined! That generosity and his obvious emotion on Sunday showed us all that there is a man behind the robot.

This entry was posted on Monday, September 11th, 2006 at 1:02 am and is filed under Racing.