IN HONOR OF OUR FRIEND 

'Racin' Rich Johnson turned life's final lap at Mountain Speedway

 

Richard Johnson, 49, a well-known enduro racer from Mastic, NY suddenly passed away on Saturday, April 1^st from an apparent heart attack during the NEETS April Fool's Day race at Mountain Speedway in St. Johns, Pa. 

 

Better known as 'Racin' Rich', Johnson was the man to approach for questions on Enduros on Long Island, as he never turned anyone down.  In turn, Johnson actually helped fellow competitors beat him on the track.  He always said that he would rather help someone run better and be more competitive rather than having more obstacles than good racers on the track.  He represented the enduro divisions in true fashion, and planned to race with the Blunderbust division this season at Riverhead Raceway. 

 

Along with being one of the founding fathers of the Grand Enduros at Riverhead, he was also a popular driver with the NEETS Holiday Stock Car Series, where he nearly took the championship in the series inaugural year.  Ironically, Johnson was beat by Ray Fitzgerald, who was certain that he wouldn't have his car done in time for the first race of the season.  Johnson would not hear of the possibility of Ray not racing, and helped him finish his car for that first race, which Fitzgerald ended up winning.

 

In almost 12 years of racing, Johnson picked up three career wins in the NEETS series and ten wins in combined Enduro divisions at Riverhead. 

 

Rich is responsible for many improvements and innovations to the Riverhead Enduro class over the years.  He shares responsibility for the class' growth and maintaining its competitive form with his attitude and helpful advice toward new racers.  As a result he earned many friends in the community. .

 

Johnson was also an ASE certified master technician.  He has owned and operated Constant Performance in Medford, NY for over 30 years.  Many racers would agree that Rich has housed their race cars at his shop from time to time, lending a hand and his tools to them to achieve their own 'constant performance'.  When asked about the enjoyment he receives from racing during a '03 interview, Johnson said, "I enjoy helping my friends improve their cars and their racing skills, and often remind them that effort equals results".

 

Johnson is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Cindy and their three children, Richard Jr., Michael and Samantha.

 

Rich was a great friend to all that knew him and left this world doing what he enjoyed best; charging to the front in his racecar.  He will be missed greatly.

 

Visitation will be at Sinneckson's Moriches Funeral Home in Moriches, NY on Wednesday, April 5^th from 2-4 PM and from 7-9 PM.  Johnson will be laid to rest at the Calverton National Cemetery in Riverhead, NY on Thursday, April 6^th.
                             

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