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SCCA: Speedvision Touring Car driver Richards succumbs to cancer

26 April 2000

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

ENGLEWOOD, Colo.--Speedvision World Challenge Touring Car driver Mike Richards, 52, of Gaithersburg, Md., died Monday, April 24, after a brief battle with cancer.

Richards contested three 1999 Speedvision Touring Car events, recording a best finish of 12th at Mosport. The Porsche, Mercedes and BMW Club driving instructor planned to contest the majority of the 2000 season driving an RC Imports Mercedes-Benz, contending for Rookie of the Year honors.

A computer systems product manager, Richards began his driving career in 1976 in the Jim Russell Series. Over the years, he has competed in SCCA Club Racing events, winning the 1991 GT-3 MARRS Regional Championship and numerous endurance races, including the 1999 24 Hours of Moroso (ITB class).

Richards was honeymooning with new bride Jasmin in Aruba in February when he became ill with pneumonia, later to be diagnosed with cancer. Richards is survived by his wife, mother and grandmother.

Funeral arrangements have been made for this week at Pumphreys Funeral Home, 300 W. Montgomery Ave., Rockville, MD 20850, with a viewing Wednesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and the funeral Thursday morning at 10:00 a.m.

The family has requested flowers and cards be sent to their home at 18520 Mountain Laurel Terrace, Gaithersburg, MD 20879.

Text provided by Eric Prill