With Evan Knoll out of racing while recovering from the affects of a head injury, a special email has been established so race fans can extend their well-wishes during this recovery period. These emails will be delivered to Evan’s family as well as posted on Torco’s CompetitionPlus.com.

With Evan Knoll out of racing while recovering from the affects of a head injury, a special email has been established so race fans can extend their well-wishes during this recovery period. These emails will be delivered to Evan’s family as well as posted on Torco’s CompetitionPlus.com.

2/1/2008

Evan, I wish you a speedy and complete recovery from vva south bay chapter 53, redondo beach, ca. thanx for your great help to vets. jerry yamamoto, vva national board of directors.
***
evan this is RON BALES ME AND ALL THE PRO TOP OUTLAWS  ARE PRAYING FOR A QUICK RECOVERY AND WE HAVE MISSED YOPU AND BRIAN AT OUR SHOW . GET WELL SOON BUT DON'T TRY AND RUSH IT LISTEN TO THE DOCTORS  RON BALES FRIEND AND FAN

***
Mr. Knoll,

 

Get well soon!

 

Thanks for all you have done for drag racing.

 

Sonny Meyer

***

Just been thinking about you Evan hope you  are doing all right and you are getting the rest you need. Take care;   Robin
***
Evan
 
THE most important thing is health.
 
You lost your father at a young age and I lost my father about the same age. I was 15.
Did not know that about your father until just reading that recently.
We have not talked much lately( my fault) its like you are too important for me to bother.
I have seen you a lot of the races and just stayed away. I am also just shy I guess.
 
You have to take care of yourself so you can live and live well.. your kids will enjoy you that  .. DAD!
Again
Health is most the most important thing!
Take care of yourself!
Get well soon.
 
Jerry Arnold

 

1/26/2008

Evan,

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you a speedy and complete recovery. In the meantime, Mike, Melanie and I will carry the POW/MIA banner on our race car and we will continue the Welcome Home program that you started at each NHRA National Event. As a Vietnam Veteran myself -- Delta Company, 5th Battalion, 7th Infantry, 1st Calvary Division, 1970 – 1971,  and a personal friend of a POW and Medal of Honor Winner, it is an honor for me to do this for you and for those great American heroes lest they be forgotten.

May God bless and keep you in his care. Please know that I am here for you if I can be of service.

Roger Burgess

***
Hello Evan. First I would like to say, get well soon. We are all pulling for you. I am with the Vietnam Veterans of America and we received an invitation to attend the Drags at Houston Race Way to see the car and meet Melanie. When I got out there I thought back to when I last attended a Drag Race and it was in Columbus Georgia in the 60's. I went to that one because they were racing a jet rail named the green monster. My trip to the Houston race way turned into something special for me and my wife. Seeing the car for the first time was inspirational for me. Malanie is a very classy lady and a true professional. She went out of her way to sign as many autographs for Veterans as possible and there were many that showed up. We were treated with respect by everyone involved in the event. We are true fans now. Thank you for what you have done for racing, Vietnam Veterans, Veterans in general, and especially for the families of our missing Brothers and Sisters. Get well and take care of yourself.
 
Jim Rose  
***
We were saddened to hear that your health is keeping you down right now..
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
We will look forward to the day when we see your enthusiasm back out on the track.
As a Vietnam Veteran, I would like to say thank you, once again, for your dedication in
honoring all Vietnam Veterans, but most importantly for bringing awareness to the POW/MIA issue.
Each time Melanie or Mike entered the staging lanes, we were proud to know that a nationwide audience would be seeing that lasting POW/MIA image. Our hearts were filled with pride as our eyes sought out the image that we, all, are so familiar with and carry in our souls and minds.
It was a pleasure to be with you, Melanie, Bobby and the team, while you were in Pomona, CA. last year.
Our support is with you now, and will be, when you, once again, bring your dynamic team back to drag racing.
Blessings to you and yours & God Bless America.
 
Steve Mackey

***
***
Thank you Evan for all your efforts in the sport of drag racing and that
our thoughts and prayers are with you for a full recovery.
Fred Gross
***
May God Bless and speed your healing!  I did not know you had been injured.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and those caring for you.  I know you
are a special person and God will do his best, as you have always done
yours.

I was hoping to see you in Pomona in February; I met you February 2007 at
the unveiling of the POW/MIA - Vietnam Veterans dragster.

Tom Hohmann
USMC Vietnam Veteran
***
evan and torco employees i wanted to thank you for everything you do for our sport. Iwork for jb motorsports. i am sorry that there are some people that like to kick a man when he is down. i dont think it is race teams i think it is some so called fans. plz.dont let them get you down.keep up the good work and great torco racing products. get well evan. perry rummell
***
Sir I am a race fan. Drag racing has become one of my favorite sports. I
realize that your sponsorships of both NHRA and IHRA racing and your teams
have been a major reason for my growth of interest. I have been in the
textile industry all my life and fully understand the ebb and flow of the
economy. I just really want to say thank you for making my world brighter
with your sponsorship. I will continue to use your products for life.

The common man needs more men of means in
this world that are willing to share their dreams as you so generously
have.

                                     thank you again and get well soon,
                                         james little


***
Evan Knoll:

THANK YOU for all you have done, continue to do, and will be doing in the
future for our favorite sport: drag racing!

Our prayers are with you and your family during this time of your recovery.
We know that Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior, having heard you mention
this on one of the NHRA broadcasts.  Hallelujah!  Glory to Jesus!

So continue to cast all your care on Him, for He cares for you.

Dean & Eva Cassano

***
Hello Evan,

 

I wish you the best in your recovery, and hope to see you back at the track soon. I was always amazed at the number of cars and bikes (sportsman & pro) that flew the Torco / Skull banner when I was at the races or watching on TV. I can only imagine how hard that must be to juggle all of that plus your business ventures.

 

Keep the faith, brother. Get well, and myself and many others look forward to seeing you at the races!

 

Mike McWhorter

***
EVAN,   WITH ALL THAT WAS GOING ON, I HAD NO CLUE THIS WAS SET UP FOR YOU.(NOT A BIG INTERNET FAN)   I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW I AM STANDING FIRM ON WHAT GOD'S WORD HAS TO SAY FOR ALL THOSE WHO BELEAVE JHON:316 &  ITS OBVIOUS THAT YOU DO. ITS BY HIS STRIPES WE ARE HEALED.  CLAIM THAT DURING THIS RESTING PERIOD.  WE AS A FAMILY ARE PRAISING GOD FOR YOUR QUICK RECOVERY . WE HAVE BEEN TRULY BLESSED TO HAVE BEEN A PART OF YOUR ORGANIZTION, AND WANT TO THANK YOU FOR GIVING SCOTTY AND OUR TEAM THE OPORTUNITY TO BUILD A CAR FOR YOU. ( I KNOW I HAVE PRAYED HARD IN LIFE  BUT ,THAT FRIDAY NIGHT SESSION AT 131, I WAS LOOKING FOR A RED PHONE TO HOT LINE GOD!!!!)AS WE ALL HAVE OUR LITTLE PRAYERS BEFORE WE SEND DRIVERS, I BEGGED FOR COMPLETE HEALING FOR YOU SO, THAT YOU CAN RETURN TO THE SEAT. BECAUSE I CAN SEE THAT STANDING BEHIND THE CAR DOESNT WORK WELL FOR YOU EITHER.   LISTEN TO YOUR DOCTORS.   ALL OUR LOVE TO LATREL.  MAY THE PEACE THAT SURPASS'S ALL UNDERSTANDING BE UPON HIM DURING THIS TIME.  HUGS AND KISS'S TO HIM AND THE GIRLS .  WE MISS YOU, MISS KIM AND BETSY, GET SOME FUN GIRL TIME IN '09 WILL BE HERE SOON ENOUGH. :)
BLESSING YOU IN YOUR TIME OF RECOVERY,cause
ITS ABOUT LIFE SO, THAT WE CAN DRAG RACE!
TRUSTING GOD FOR YOUR FULL RECOVERY,
BILLIE JO AND ANTTHONY ERMALOVICH

***
Evan:
 
 
Take a breather and get well.  That is the number one priority.  Thank you for all of your generous support of the sport I love and all of your charity work. Some fans seem to forget all that you do.
 
 
Don Patterson
***

1/19/2008

***
 
Evan, The thing that you must concentrate on specifically is getting healthy, nothiing else matters. You've done so much for this sport we love, and shared in. Dont second guess yourself.  Just get yourself well...
 
Herb Moore
Carla Hoeger

***
I shall dub you the "Meteor Man" due to the huge impact that you have left upon the drag racing community as a whole. Please get well and come on back to racing when you can. God Speed, brother Evan.

David L. Humphrey
***

***
Evan:   I'm a long time racer, started when Christmas Tree's had presents under them.
           I've admired both you and Forrest for many years because of your efforts to assist big and little racers.
           Rest and get well.  We'll see you soon.  You are one of the great friends of Drag Racing.

Terry McHardy
***
Evan,


I'm just a fan.......A long-time fan of all motorsports with a tremendous love of all things drag racing. I wanted to personally thank you for all you have done to promote the races, sponsor the un-tested newby drivers and help all the teams live "The Dream" each and every day. I look up to you with great admiration and appreciation of what you have accomplished. I hope that someday I have the ability to participate in my "true love" of racing and help other racers reach their goals, while I help my company learn the features/benefits of true Motorsports Marketing.....it may take (10) years to reach the right level, but I'm well on my way...and your true passion for the sport is my inspiration....

I wish you and your family the best and hope for your speedy recovery in 2008.....before you know it 2009 will be right around the corner.


Best  Regards,

Jon Litsey

***
Dear Evan     I hope you a have a speedy recovery and just to know you are in the best of  hands and faith of god.Please rest up you are truly a miracles person yourself you have givin people a chance of a life time to fulfill dreams and live life to the fullist. Thanks for being such a caring and giving person we need more people in the world like you. My prayers are with you and your family .GODSPEED ERIC BARKER
***
Mr Knoll,
  As a long time Drag Racing Fan and Vietnam Veteran I sincerely wish you a full recovery and return to good health and to the sport that we all love. On a personal note I as many of my fellow Veterans want to "Thank You" for caring enough about us to "Honor Us" in the way that you have. This sport isn't just about the race cars it's about people,that's what makes it so GREAT and I have doing this since 1961.You may hear some negative things but I will tell you without you many of the "Racers" out there today would have never been given the chance to do what they do.Just think about what you have done for the Fans and Sactioning Bodys.Would we have seen JR Todd , Mike Ashley, Melaine Troxell , Dave Connolly, Dale Creasy, Clay Millican and countless others including a great gentleman Gary Densham. And at least one car in every Sportsman Class there is , and my personal favorite and home town guy Sewell NJ's own Doug Foley. There are no wo rds or deeds that speak louder than your dedication to the "Veterans and the Honor You Have Bestowed On Us" something you didn't need to do but chose to do from your heart and for that "I Thank You". In closing I have never had the honor to meet you but I hope next year when your at a race that I will have the honor to shake your hand. Have a speedy recovery and "Thank You". See You At The Races!!!
 
                                                                         Respectfully,
                                                                         Howard Lloyd
                                    
***
Evan, I don't personally know you, but I know what kind of  person you are from all of the things I've read about you. Take all the time you need to heal, we will be anticipating your return to racing. You are in my prayers, and may God bless you and heal you.

Terry Williamson

***
git r done , you really are the best . get well .
 
vern hetz
***
Evan, in all of my years of racing, I have never seen one person help so many others. I hope that goes both ways as you recover.

Len Cottrell

***
Get well Evan you have been  a great blessing for so many that love the sport.. I know what you must be going through because we are going through alot of the same. My father wrecked his super gas car in Reynolds Georgia at a division 2 points meet in October 06. At the time of his wreck we had B/A comp car and a super gas car and two super stockers and a semi to haul all three. But we had to take a few steps back to get him feeling better from his injuries. He had another surgeory January 15 2008 ,That makes about ten surgeries total. To repair some more of the damage to his neck and he has a back surgeory scheduled for April of 08.
   His injuries were broken neck, back and several lower leg and hip injuries. After spending nearly a month in Macon Georgia's Trauma unit in intensive care and another month at Vanderbilt rehab center in nasville, Tn. Since then we have finished his SS/AH Hemi Barracuda and have ran it at several races with someone else driving. We have a construction company, which I have worked at for almost twenty years with him so we can race. He had great insurance or it would have been catastrofic financially for him
  He is like you his love for drag racing is greater than a wreck and a few set backs in life can put on that. He still wants to drive a race car even after all of this. I believe my mother would kill him if the drag racing did not. I now know that a bad day drag racing is so much better than a good day at work
  Our prayers are with you. Get Well Soon !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
 
Scott Hutton.
***
Evan,

 

Nope you don’t know me. I am involved in the Nostalgia Fuel Altereds and Funnycars side of drag racing. I just wanted to take a moment to wish you all the best in getting better. You have helped so many people in the drag racing community it has truly been a blessing to have you as a drag racing fan. I was helping Virgil Hartman and his top fuel team at Joliet a couple years ago and your Torco brand was helping him at that time. Thank you for everything you have done for our sport.

 

Now take care of yourself and get better so you can come back and see all your friends!

 

“Rapid” Randy Baker

***
To Evan Knoll and Family
 
I am glad and very happy for what you have done in drag racing helping the under dog and the small teams, a lot those racers would not most likely had even gotten to race at all without you! I myself have only meet you a  few times, and you were always very nice and kind to me in telling me I did a great job covering the drag races be it NHRA POWERade series or the IHRA Torco race Series. I myself was supposed to fly up to Vegas this morning,The strip for pre season testing, but I am not going due to one of my feet is infected really bad. I myself decided that my health is more important then shooting photos and covering this test session. again it 2.13 a.m. and due to the pain in my foot being swollen up, the throbbing pain shooting threw my foot made me decide that again my health is the most important so I under stand.
.Because if I did fly up  I would have of course been all over the place walking on them!
 Oh I would not let that crap on nitromater.com bother you, most of those that say the bad things are just jealous of all the people you have helped get to the race track. God speed my friend James Drew
 
Again I will be glad to see you at the track S@@N Get Well - James Drew

***
A Huge get well soon from Don Kennedy in mesa, Az > Evan ,if you ever need a favor ask I I will do for you anytime any place .You have made a huge contribuction to Drag racing for My follow racers and i want you to know we all appreciate you for you
 
.
Thanks        

Don Kennedy

1/15/2008 9:30 PM, EST

Hi Evan,
We have never met. My name is Chuck Etchells. I ran a nitro F/C
for many years in both IHRA and NHRA. I often have thought
about trying to come back and really would like to.
Thought about trying to set-up a meeting with you but figured
everyone and their brother was hitting on you. Racers are a
tough bunch and most will do whatever it takes to stay out their.
It's almost like a drug addict. I am certain you feel bad for
those that will not race due to the situation. Don't because without
you and what you and Torco did many of them would not have lived
their dream. You have been an unbelievable supporter to the entire
sport of drag racing and it is better because of you. I was
never fortunate  to have a sponsor like you. We had to work 24/7 and
prove we were providing a superior ROI. Thank you for everything you have done for the sport.

If I am fortunate enough to return to the sport it will be because people such as yourself made it
better. Please focus your efforts on getting healthy.
God Bless You.
Sincerely, Chuck Etchells

***
Evan,God is in complete control of all things and it seems that sometimes we as His children are placed in a position that is very hard,but brings us closer to Him.Remember He has a plan for each of us. Sometimes we have to go thru the deepest valleys to get to the highest mountan tops.I will be praying for you and your recovery as I remember your wonderful smile.Roger Stull P.S.Thank you again for your contributions to Young Life [Mike Edwards Motorsports] and all you have done for drag racing.All of us will be in constant prayer. 

***
get well and don't worry about anything. we all love you. Lance Larsen

***
Evan thank you for all you have done for drag racing. You have given it more support than anyone on earth.
Hope that GOD restores your health. Get Well Soon we need you back.
Unknown Drag Racer

***
Evan –

Thanks for all you have done for this sport we all love so much. Get well soon.

Sincerely,
Brady Kalivoda

***
Hang in there Buddy.....Hope to see you soon...your other photographer.....
 
tim marshall las vegas

***
Evan,
 You have helped so much in our awesome sport, Now it's time to take care of yourself !
God Bless you and you will be in my prayers. Get Well soon !
                                          Bill Rice
***
As a 45 year old life long fan of drag racing,(my single mom took me and 5 friends to orange county for my 7th birthday)   I have wanted to thank you for all you have done for my favorite sport, I have wanted to thank you and have kept my eyes open at Pomona hoping to meet you, now I will keep you in my daily prayers and hope god heals you. So I can some day shake your hand and thank you in person. relax and listen to your doctors . we are lucky to live in the times we do and the country we do so we can have the best care that has ever existed.      best wishes and get well .............................. a fan   Jeff walker


***
Evan,
  It is through your commitment and generosity to drag racing that has allowed so many racers across this country to live out their dreams. Dreams do come true and you help make it so. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you, for a complete and speedy recovery. Sincerely,  Will Hinkston

***
Evan I know how those head injuries are... I had one a few years ago and it made me not know what I was doing.I lost my wife and gave all my money away..hope you recover.I will say a prayer for you   TONY  CHRISTIAN
***
Evan,
 
Your influence in the sport of Drag Racing is international and from all your friends here in Australia.
 
Best wishes in your recovery .
 
I am sure It won't be easy for you to do so but please listen to your medical team.
 
You deserve to get as much enjoyment as possible from your involvement in the sport and we all hope
this time away gives you the ability for maximum enjoyment long into the future .
 
yours in Drag racing
 
Victor and Ben Bray and team
Brisbane , Australia

***
Evan,
 
I wish you all the best in your recovery. Drag Racing would NOT be the sport it is without the FUEL DOCTOR!
I wish you a 330 MPH recovery!
 
Take Care,
 
 
Michael Ivey

***
Im sorry to hear about you getting out of racing for '08 but we all hope you get well as fast as you can.
 
                                               Gleghorn Racing

***
Evan, God's speed for a quick recovery. Your smiling face will be missed by a bunch of folks at the race tracks. Get well soon and hurry back. You will be in our prayers.
 
Ron Sharp

***
Evan and Family,
 
On behalf of all of us at 10,000 RPM, Inc. we would like to extend our Thoughts and Prayers to You and Youur Family.
We are Believing that God will Heal you completely and that he will perform a Miracle in all your lives.
 
Sincerely,
Becky Hammel-Peters
Ronald R. Hammel

***
Evan
I have never had the good fortune of being able to meet you,however I greatly admire all you've done for drag racing & most of all the little guy in racing.Please take the what ever time is required to completely heal from your accident.Life & family is a whole lot more important than any racing. Good luck & get well. Mike Smith
***
Evan,
 
   All of us at Team Jesus are praying every day for your complete healing!
  And we pray peace for you, your family and your employees.
  John 15:7
  Blessings!
  Kim Grasty/ founder,  Team Jesus Motorsports

***

Evan
Get well soon, and the faith.  Thank you for all you do for IHRA, and all  of motorsports.
 
IHRA TopSportsman Racer
Jay Zimmerman
***
Praying for a complete and speedy recovery for You... Relax and enjoy . Hope to see You soon. Gary Williams

***
Get Well,Buddy,You're the best so take care of yourself.You've made many, many people happy by reaching their dreams.We're all rooting for you! - Chowski
***
Evan, Our family is praying for you. I know you are in God's hands and his love serounds you at this time. His Healing is working on you and I know you will be back good as new soon.
You have blessed me and so many other people that I truley feel God will bless you with good health soon.
I believe in the power of Prayer and Im asking all my friends to pray for you also.
God Bless and Keep you
Love ya
Kathy

***
Thanks for what you have done for racing...and now it's time to worry about you.  Get well and then go get 'um.
Hank Schmitt

***
Dear Mr. Knoll:
 
My family and I wish you a speedy recovery. As a long-time drag racing fan, I try to support those companies that support the sport I dearly love. You sir, have gone above and beyond with what you have done for the sport of drag racing. Thank you very much. I wish I would have had the opportunity to personally thank you.
 
As an ICU nurse, I understand the perils associated with head injuries and the need for rest and recuperation. So as a good patient, get your rest! LOL.
 
Godspeed and I hope to see you at the race track in 2009! 2008 will not be the same without you.
 
Sincerely:
 
Gary Falanga

***
Evan Get well soon and Thank you for all you have done for racing this last year.
 - FLA BUGMAN
***
Get well Evan
Thank You for all you do for the sport.
Regards
Kevin Drew
***
Evan,

We pray for your full and speedy recovery.

Your support for this sport is appreciated by all of us.

Drag Racing has grown as a result of your dedication; it has become the field of dreams for many.

Get Well soon. 

Thanks
Konigshofer Motorsports

***
My thoughts are with you. You know the drag racing "family" stands behind you.
Brian Thurber

***
Evan get well soon ...DRAG RACING needs you....The Schapiro Family

***
I have always been in pressed in the way your company has grown now its time for you to heal so you may again be even more successful in your business.
 
best wishes from the NEXT GENERATION racing team.
 
Steve Quint

***
We all need you in drag racing.
get well soon

JET

***
Evan-
 
I really appreciate what you have done for the sport of drag racing over the past several years.
 
Please take as much time as you need to get well, the sport really needs you back.
 
Sincerely,
 
Paul Titchener

***
Best wishes and thank you for all that you do.
 
T.J. Schippling
***
Get well soon evan, can't have a michigan man on the sielines, they need to be in the middle of the action just like the kallita's and so many more. Hope to see at the tracks soon.- RAPTSCRAPT
***

 ***
Evan:
Thanks for all that you've done for drag racing thus far, and I hope to see you on the track again as soon as your healthy.
 
Dave Knight
***
Evan:
 
I am very happy to see the news that you are home and recovering now.  You are a blessing to drag racing and to drag racers.  I hope you can ignore the people who have been critical or at least see that there are a lot of people that DO want to see you take the time and recover.
 
We have never met but it is so easy to see what a quality person you are.  I will continue to pray for you as you get better.  Take care of YOURSELF and then enjoy this sport of drag racing!!!
 
Jay Smith
***
There is an old saying “ you can’t be good to others until you are good to your self”. I wish you well; thank you for being you; and thank you for supporting an organization I joined some 40 years ago. God speed.

Al Downs

***
Hello Evan, my names Joe Sherwood. I attend 8-9 NHRA races per year,  
and I've always applauded what you've done for the Sport as a whole.    
As I've mentioned in the past, your like a ghost at the track, nobody  
sees you!   I just hope that your recovery goes well, and we see you  
back in '09 or sooner!   Take care, Joe Sherwood

***
Evan,
 
Get well soon. Thank you for coming on our show "Power Shift" and sharing your passion for drag racing with us. I hope you can get back on track very soon.
 
Joe Castello
***
Our thoughts and prayers are with you for a speedy recovery.  
 
The Connolly's

***
Evan,

All the best in a speedy recovery. I would like to thank you for all you have done for the sport of drag racing.

Sincerely,

Rob Laing

***
Mr. Knoll,
I have been involved with Drag racing as long as I can remember, and it has given me a lot of people to look up to and respect growing up.  I've had the benefit of working on the IHRA tour on a funny car in the pre Knoll era and can say that what you have done for the sport can be paralleled to the greats such as Don Garlits.  As a former racer and now a fan I can say that while your absence will be felt heavily, it will be felt that way only that we are hoping for you to make a full recovery.  You have done great things and provided great opportunities for racers and fans alike,  and we want nothing less than to see you cared for the way you have cared for so many others. Take the time and concentrate on your recovery, come back, be 100 percent and be able to enjoy the racing world the way you've helped us enjoy it, the way it should be.
Eric Hanson
***
Get well soon Evan. I am an IHRA fan that
has been thankful for your participation in
the greatest sport in the world. Looking
forward to your return
God speed and get well soon.

Jeff Hayes/Lyons, NY
***
Evan,

 

       We have never met, but I have heard many great things on how you take care of people close to you. We see a lot of good people that work for you and always say great things. We all wish the best of luck and thank you for all that you have done for our sport. Especially in the IHRA and in our class of Pro Stock, your support and belief is always well appreciated. We can not say enough to thank you and hopefully you be feeling better soon. Maybe some day I will have the opportunity to thank you in person.

 

 

Get Well soon!!!

 

Dan Sweeney

***
I just want to say how great of a man Mr. Knoll is.  I really respect that he has given the "little guy" a chance to play with, and for that matter give the big boys a run for their money.  I had the oppurtunity to meet Mr. Knoll at the 06 AC Delco nationals.  I was waiting in line to get a Melanie Troxel diecast body I had signed by Melanie.  I looked over and there was Evan standing there with his trademark black and red basketball shorts on, white Torco hat, black Torco crew jersey, Oakley sunglasses, and a bottle of water.  I stepped out of Melanie line, and approached Mr. Knoll.  He was talking to Mike Ashley at the time, and some other fans approached Mike and wanted his autograph.  I took that pause as an oppurtunity to speak with Evan.  I handed him the body panel and asked him if he would sign in.  He got his big smile on his face and said sure.  He then signed it and handed it back to me, and I told him, "I appreciate all that you do for the sport."  He smiled again and stuck his hand out for me to shake.  The fact that such a busy guy with more money than god would take the time to sign my dragster body and be so friendly at the same time, is a drag racing memory I will never forget.  Get well soon Evan, can't wait to see you on the starting line again!!
 
Chris Reid

***
God bless you and yours with a speedy and complete recovery. Thank you for the many hours of entertainment your love and support of the sport has provided me as a fan. - Greg
***
Evan;
 
I want to wish you a speedy and complete recovery.
 
As a drag race fan we have a lot in common. Drag racing has been my choice since the mid 60s
when i was just a little kid. It's amazing how much it has grown over the years. And it's through
people like you and your teams that has made the sport the reason why i continue to be such
an avid fan. Your sponsorship of Melanie Troxel and the POW/MIA dragster that recognized our
veterans was an outstanding gester on your part and i for one will never forget that and all the
other contributions you have made to our wonderful sport..
 
You take care of yourself and we will see you back in a year or so.
 
Thanks for the thrills,
Bill "Rowdy" Ralls
***
Dear Mr.Evan Knoll,I have been drag racing in brackets since 1972.I am a big fan of the professional side of my sport also.You have given this sport a big shot in the arm with your sponsorships to teams ,drivers and associations.I thank you and pray for your recovery.Yours truely,Bill Worters
***
HELLO, I DON’T KNOW YOU AND HAVE NEVER HAD THE PLESURE OF MEETING YOU. BUT YOU HAVE DONE A LOT FOR THE SPORT I LOVE, “DRAG RACING”. YOU HAVE HELPED PEOPLE WHO OTHER WISE WOULD NEVER HAVE HAD THE CHANCE TO DO WHAT THEY LOVE. FOR THIS I WANT TO THANK YOU. I ONLY HOPE THERE ARE MORE OF YOU IN THIS WORLD, MAYBE I’LL GET MY CHANCE TO STEP UP SOMEDAY.

THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS YOU. I HOPE FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY!

“KILLER KEN”  IAMELE,  ROCHESTER, NY

***
Evan,
 
What you have done for many Drag Racers is nothing short of amazing. Now it is your turn to take care of yourself!
 
Business and Racing will be here tomorrow, you need to take care of yourself and make sure that you are there too to enjoy it.
 
Get well soon mate.
 
Paul Rogers

***
Evan,
 
Though we have never met, you have supported us and the sport of drag racing in ways we couldn't have imagined.  I applaud your integrity and perserverence, and appreciate the fact that Torco has been forthcoming in communicating your situation.  We understand how overwhelming health problems can be, and we know that your determination will help your recovery just as it has helped our sport.  We will support you just as you have supported us.  You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Curt and Leanne Fredrich
***
Evan, I have been involved in drag racing since I was 14 years old, which is 50 years.  Through that time I have seen a huge amount of changes, some for the good, some not so good.  Was a front motor dragster owner in the 60's and race Super Comp now.
 
I have seen many car owners come and go, some for reasons we don't really want to discuss because those reasons are not good for the sport.
 
I want to THANK YOU for what you have done in the time you have been envolved in drag racing.  I am a Vietnam Vet and have visited your pits many times.  What you have done for the Vietnam Vets, Pow's and Mia's is OUTSTANDING.  
 
I am very sorry to hear about you health issues, I am still fighting some sever issues that started 2 years ago and what I can tell you that the most important things in life are your health and family, and they have to come first.  They are the most precious things we have in life.
 
If you never field a car again you have done a service to Drag Racing, Veterans, Pow's and Mia's that no one has ever done and I THANK YOU very much for that.
 
I wish you a successful recovery from your health problems and look forward to 2009 because when you come back I believe what you do will be bigger and better for all of us from Super Comp to Top Fuel and the sport.
 
Best of health, and I hope for a fast recovery.
 
Terry Almy
***
Evan,
 
First and foremost, we all here wish you a speedy recovery.  As someone who has been around NHRA for over 40 years (my dad drove one of the S/FX Dodge Chargers in 64, the fathers of funny cars !) I have seen pretty much everything in the sport.  Ups, downs, the excitement of it.  I know you have, too, and I think you and I are about as much fans of the sport as anyone can be.  OK we live and breathe it !  Guilty !
 
As the fan I am, I want to say, in all the years, not many people have done so much for the sport as you have.  I hope everyone, including NHRA and IHRA themselves,  who has been under your wing of sponsorship realizes your importance, and has the same hope for you to get well, and be back to yourself.  Though you won't be hopping between the pits this year, 2008 is still your year.  It's the year you take for yourself to heal, and be stronger for 2009.  
 
Best wishes, and hurry back when you can !
 
Michael Johnson

***
Mr. Knoll & family,

 

We just wanted to let you know we are thinking of you and are praying for a speedy recovery.  We appreciate the many things you have done for us, and the sport we love.  Please let us know if there is ever anything we can do to help you.

Take care,

New Breed Racing
Alesi, Ayrton, Duane & Lisa Gerthe

***
Evan, Just wanted to wish you a speedy recovery. Both me and my family would like to thank you for doing such an awesome job with your race teams. You have brought excitement to both sanctioning bodies, and in what seems to be a bunch of negative comments being thrown around. I just wanted to say thank you, get well, and hopefully we will see you at Summit Motorsports Park in 2009. God Bless, and we will pray for your quick recovery. Gary Osborne
***
Our prayers will be with Mr.Knoll in his fight for a complete recovery! With a 17 year old daughter racing a very fast racecar I worry all the time (more when she drives on the roadways)! So take the needed time to get better! - Karen Kinsley
***
Get well soon Evan. See you in 2009!!! - Jeremy Weaver
***
You got some KICKASS rides Bro waycool ……Cat Scratch Fever …..  1970 Cougar ….All Motor Milan Dragway ;)  - Kevin Sievers

1/14/2008 7 AM, EST (NOTE - HAVE MORE TO POST TODAY)

May GOD bless the hands of your doctors and bless you with a miraculous healing.

Victor Cagnazzi

***

Evan:

You are in my prayers may you return to perfect health as soon as possible

Todd Veney

***
Get Well soon Evan, My famly's thoughts and prayers are with you! Hope to see you at the Northern Nationals again in 2008! Take care and God bless! Jay Jachimiak

***
Mr Knoll,
              I truly appreciate your support of the sport that we love.
Take all the time (no short cuts) that you need to get better.

Scott.
***
It is hard for me to put into words how much I hope for your better health and for you to get well soon Evan. Don't know if you remember I was on fire at a race in Stanton Mi. in 04' and you were at the shut down aera after your run. The guys at the end of the track frooze, you came over and grabbed the fire bottle and put my car out before I even got out of it. I owe you Evan. Sponsership or not I will cary you Torco logo on my car out of respect for Torco and most of all you as a person. GET WELL SOON EVAN !!!!!!!!!!!!    Robin and Tony.   
***
    Hi

        Just like to wish Evan the best of luck in his recovery. I appreciate what he has done for the drag racing family he has created. Also for the veterans&POW s .The car last year brought tears to my eyes and to shake hands with Evan was a privilage. I wish Gods speed in his recovery.

   A fellow vet and like long drag racer

       Art Tomczak

***

Hope the very best for you, and to say thank you for
everything you have done to contribute to Drag Racing
as a whole, and just wanted to wish you a speedy and
complete recovery and to tell you that I am and will
continue to pray everyday for you!
Sincerely, Jack Curles,

***
Evan,
Hello. Our paths have crossed at many Races and my family and I are praying for your speedy recovery. I can't wait to cross paths again and see your big smiling face again. If there is anything we can do for you and/or your family please let me know. I called my dad in Pennsylvania and they put you on a prayer chain at his church this week...... God bless and see you soon
***
Best personal regards,
Joseph C. Lepone
***
Evan I am also recovering from a double lung transplant.I am a Nam vet and really appreciated you sponsorship of the POW.MIA car.I do not know much about your life but am guessing you might be a vet also. I hope to be back at the TRACK this summer.and see my old friends.I hope we can meet and chat a minute. I am former Top Fuel racer Don Lampus Uncle Al  
***
get well evan, take your time .. the fans and the racers will be here when you are ready. I have had the honor to meet you on several occasions and get to know you with my adopt a sailor project , your support of the troops and there families goes without saying ..so in short we the troops support you.. get well Sir!!

Lee McKinney
***

Thanks for all you have done for the sport of racing, the race fans, and as an US Armed Forces Veteran, thanks for keeping America remembering the POW-MIA’s of a forgotten war.  My prayers are with you for your recovery, for your improved health, for your business,  and for you personally as a fellow American.
 
God bless you and Godspeed in your recovery,
Dan Hayes
***

I have been a drag racing fan since I was very young (i am 54 now) and I have been an Evan Knoll fan since I first heard of him and what he has done in the sport and in business. I am shocked to hear about his health, I never knew anything about the accident. I have been very busy with my own business that I had not had a chance to check the web sites this week. What a shock, I am sitting here with tears in my eyes for a MAN that I have never met but have admired from a distance. My prays and blessings will be with Evan and his family. Forget about the racing or the business Evan we want you to be healthy again. May GOD bless you and he will. In my prays - Ralph Sanford.

***
Hello Evan...Sorry to hear of your Accident. Hope you get well soon..Pat Donovan
***

Wishing you the best and hope your health improves in the near future
                                              Tom

***
Dear Evan,
Thanks for all you do for Drag Racing. We hope you feel better real soon. We wear our Torco gear proudly.
You will be in our prayers,
Scott, Gilda and Christopher

***
Evan,
Take the time you need to get well, there will be many days at the track ahead, and although you will be missed, it is temporary.
Rest, get better, and we will see you back at the track when you are ready to "come out and play" !!
Until then, keep the faith, don’t give up!
 
Darrell Reid

***
Mr. Knoll, I would like to thank you for all you have done for all forms of auto racing but particularly drag racing. There would not be as many professional and sportsman racers fulfilling their dreams without your generosity and love for the sport. Please take the time necessary to fully heal. Your health and family should come before all other endeavors. Many well wishes for a full and complete recovery. - Paul Reiter

***
Evan,
I will pray for your health. I suffered the same kind of injury at the Memphis race in 1994, and can tell you that you have made the right decision to rest for a year. We look forward to seeing you in 2009.
 
                                 Dale Eicke
***
May God Bless you during your resting time and your future edeavor's.
Jim & Jan Sanchez.

***
Mr. Knoll & family,

Just a note to let you know we are thinking of you and are praying for a speedy recovery.  We appreciate you and look forward to seeing you back at the track soon…take care.

New Breed Racing
Alesi, Ayrton, Duane & Lisa Gerthe 

1/10/2008 1:30 PM, EST

I just wanted to wish you a speedy journey to getting well.  It can be done.  I am a living proof that if you have the will to succeed and the support of your family [all of us] you can get better.  Last 4 years 2 heart attacks and 2 year war on Cancer which I won.

Listen to the doctors and don't worry about the business as you have good people there who care.

Jim Burke

***
I just hope you get well Evan. You have impacted Drag Racing in so many ways you don’t even realize.

You put your money out their for people to have their dreams and also as a fan getting to see the quality you have put out in your race teams..

I hope you get better. Drag Racing is not the same without you and your teams!!!

Gareth Goetz form California

***
Hey Evan,
Get well soon, both in body and in mind. Remember, many fans and racers are counting on you.
You have taken on an awesome responsibility holding the future of so many racers in your hands.
You have found under funded talent that is now allowed to shine, but would never have the chance without you.
Hang in there, and we will all pray for your recovery!
 
Richard Burbick

***
Get well,all the racing will still be here when you get back wont be the same till then but it will be here .take this time to get better and spend all the time you can with family and friends it will help you more than any thing .i would also like to thank you for every thing you have done for drag racing it is a big part of my life and i enjoy every second of it.hurry back see ya in a year.or more like in 4.39@345mph win in the finals at indy,by the way i used to be a crew member on a pro mod car and i know how hard it is to have to walk away.see ya at the track. 
Pace Walker

***
Just a note to wish Evan all the best in a speedy recovery.
 
Being a die-hard drag racing fan & competitor I have seen the impact that Evan has had on the sport and we will surely miss him while he is away.
 
Evan needs to do what is best for him to get him back in the game in the shape he wants to be in.
 
Thanks for all your support of the sport I dearly love and we look forward to seeing you back out there soon!!

Stan "Butch" Monson

***

Evan, we love ya man and our prayers are with you, get well soon.
 
Gary P Jackson

***

GET WELL MR. KNOLL. YOU BRING a lot OF EXCITEMENT TO THE DRAGSTRIP.
GREG KING

***

BEST OF LUCK  WE WILL MISS YOU AND YOUR TEAMS. You are an asset to the world of drag racing. Thank you J Roberts

***

Evan Knoll and family,
 
Best wishes to you and your health. Looking forward to having you back again soon, and what you have in store for dragracing when you comeback.
 
Best of Health.
Tom Lukans

***

Mr Knoll,
I'm glad you have been convinced to slow down and focus on yourself, you have been a role model to many of us who see your drive, passion, and love of making others dreams come true.It is now time for you to take that energy and put it into yourself and no others, for that when you come back healed and reenergized, we can only wait to see what you do for those around you. This sport, this nation need Evan Knolls who unknowingly touch the lives of many he has never even met. We Thank You !!!
You are in are prayers each day for a complete recovery, remember, now is your time.
 
In Gods Prayers,
CB

***

Best Wishes for a speedy recovery Evan. Down here in San Antonio I am the no Box track champion for 2007 at San Antonio Raceway a IHRA sanctioned track. We all wish u well and hope u make a full recovery, thanks for being such a hug reason alot of us are involved in and enjoy anything with the TORCO name on it and for having such a great fuel, Randy Jones

Mr Knoll

***
 
Gods speed and take care in your recovery. Your presence will be missed by EVERY
racer and we all will look foreward to your return in 2009.
 
Best Wishes
Mike O'Brien

***

Evan,
Take the year off and rest up!! Thanks for all you do for our sport.
 
Jimmy Biggs

***

Evan,

Just wanted you to know that I wish you all the best with your procedures and pray that you are on your way to a speedy recovery. I know that with God's help and our patience everything is going to be just fine. I look forward to seeing that big 'ol smile again soon! Take care and remember that no matter how long it takes, your "Family" will be here to welcome you back with open arms.

Thanks for all you do,

Marc Kinton

***

Not too many guys like yourself around who put themselves on the line to give us with less the opportunity to do what we love. I also would like to add that I started using your fuel at the end of last season after being totally dedicated to VP race fuel. Your NOS 118 is the best and so are you as a person! Thanks for doing what you do and look forward to seeing you back up to 100% MUCH sooner than later. - Artis Houston

***
Youker Motorsports has you in our thoughts.The sport would not be what it is today without your support,so we extend a sincere thanks on our behalf.We will miss you so get well and hurry back!!
 
                                                                                                      Best wishes,
                                                                                                      Jeremy Youker
***
Evan,

It is without hesitation that I say thank you so very much for your unbelievable contributions to our beloved sport of drag racing.  So many have now been given the resources, opportunity and the hope to race on as a direct result of your generosity and in their behalf, I say thank you.  In my business, I deal with many individuals who have been blessed with material wealth yet, for some unknown reason they become all the more selfish in an effort to retain and amass more and more.  How refreshing it is to see someone like yourself who is blessed with substance openly and selflessly offer assistance to so many who have the talent but lack the resources.  You have not only chosen wisely who to assist but you have further chosen how to assist and that is incredible to me. 

I have strong Christian beliefs and am quite aware that Christ can make up the difference, after all I can do, to again return to live with my Heavenly Father.  What you have done for so many is make up the difference in assisting many reach their dreams.  This shows incredible kindness from your heart and as has been written, Inasmuch as you have done unto the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto Me.  Your awesome contributions will never go un-noticed where it really matters.  May the Lord bless you in your effort to completely recover and return to your desired health.  My family and I are praying for your faith and treatments to bring forth fruits of healing.  We all want you healthy and happy and if you never spend another dollar on drag racing sponsorship, you will have far exceeded anything ever expected by those who really know.  Again, thank you for your valued generosity!

Sincerely,

Bobby Miller "Dr. Dirt"

***
Get Well Evan our prayers are with you
Eric Litvin

***
Mr. Knoll,

On behalf of the entire Northern Force Racing team, we wish you 
nothing but a speedy, 100% recovery from your injuries. What you have 
done for our beloved sport is truly remarkable and I don?t believe 
that anyone could possibly thank you enough for that.

I'm sure I speak for a lot of people when I say that we can't wait to 
see you and your teams back on the track as soon as possible.

Cheers,

R. Jory Elliott

***
Get well quick.  The sport needs individuals like you.  Hurry back.

Charles K. Logan

***
My wife and I wish you a speedy recovery. You will be missed at the races; but your health is the primary concern. Get well soon Evan!
                                                                                                           Bill and Libby Seabrooks
***
Hope you get to feeling better, because it's gonna be lonesome at the NHRA national meets without seeing your smiling face.  I work Emergency truck
no. 1 on the Safety Safari and do a lot of the "torching" in the water box so I have talked to you several times over the last few years, hope I haven't "burnt" you any time though.
Anyway, take care and come back to see us when you can..............hook

***
Evan,
 
Kick-back and relax, Get Well SOON! But more
Important.........Just Get WELL!!!! We'll all be here
when your ready to return. Just Heal, Don;t Rush
It!!!
 
 
Best of everything to ya!
 
Mike Magiera

***

 

   Please hurry and get well and back in the swing. As a contributor to Torco Competition Plus.com, and naturally also a fan, we look forward to you being 100 percent, soon!
    God Bless,
    Norm Froscher 

***

Dear Evan,
I haven't met you yet but I want to thank you for your generosity and encouragement to our son.  You have made a lifelong dream possible for him and he thinks you are a very special person.  And listening to him talk about you makes me know of his admiration for you. Thank you again! 

Enough of that.  You must take care of your health, it is really the must precious thing you own.  Believe me if you don't have that it is very distressing and you sometimes get very discouraged.  Please, I beg of you to let that be your # 1 priority in 2008.

Remember you have THE GREATER PHYSICIAN concerned for your welfare and you are in our prayers.  Not only you but your loving family also.

Grace and Peace be yours,
Jim and Martha (Moma) Millican  

***

Hey Evan,
 
        Hope you get to feeling better soon.  Take good care of yourself.
 
Mark Trembley

***

Get Well Evan,I have never met you but I am a friend of Matt Smiths and I hope you make it back healthy.Your health is the most important thing we have,so make sure you get healthy and don't rush back,racing will be there when you get back. Again I wish you nothing but good things.
                                                                         Rob Hunnicutt
***

mr.knoll,,,hope you get better and can get back to normal,,my son works for mike edwards and has told me you are a class act...get well soon,,,,
 
mike and donna phillips

***

Evan
 
We all at SpeedSports Marketing, wish you a swift recovery from your injury and look forward to you getting well and a full recovery in the immediate future. Our prayers and blessings are with you and your entire family, friends and racing team family as well. Thank you all for your efforts in Drag Racing NHRA & IHRA. I also appreciate all your support for Vietnam Veterans, I served 22 months in Nam with Marine Corps
 
 
Richard Luther

***

Evan,

I've always though of you as a straight up, look you in the eye, firm handshake kind of guy that would be cool to sit and have a beer with. I love drag racing and really appreciate how much you do for all the teams you support. And then, you brought out the MIA-POW Vietnam Veterans tribute car, and that was just awesome. But best of all, you're a Pittsburgh Steelers fan! Know that there are a lot of thoughts and prayers coming from the Steelers Nation and the Pittsburgh area drag racing community.

Chuck Turocy

 

***

Evan,

I talked to both Brian and Terry yesterday and they informed me that you are not feeling well.  Dina and I want to extend our well wishes to you.  You are one of my best friends Evan.  If there is anything you

need, do not hesitate  to call Dina or me.  All that matters right now is you getting well.  I sure miss hanging out with you guys like we did in the old days at Martin. Let's get back to doing that this summer.  

I look forward to hearing from you.  I mean it when I say if you need us,  just call.

Your friend,

Roger
 

***

Evan……We all understand now.  The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.  Go with the Lord on this one.  He’ll take care of everything.  You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Our family will put in a prayer request at our regular service this Sunday.  It’s much better when you’re out there with us.  Get healthy and you’ll be up on the tire in no time.  You’re a good man, Evan Knoll.

Late…………Mitch Johnson and Family

                   Saint Petersburg, FL

***
Please take your time and do whatever needs to be done, then return with a vengeance and show them how it’s done.  Good luck, rest and rehab.

SicklesCorp Motorsports
Caledonia, NY

*** 

Evan,

Get well soon. I will miss your smiling face at the track and thanks again for the Viet Nam Top Fuel. I am a VN vet and you made me proud of what you did. Your health is more important than any race car or drag strip.

GET WELL SOON.

Bob Lannon

*** 

Good luck, God Bless & godspeed to you and your continuing efforts to well in body and spirit.

Ostrander Racing

***
Get well soon Evan! Drag racing really needs you ! But more importantly your family needs you most…..

Jeffrey York 

***

Evan,
        
A big thanks for all that you have done for the sport of drag racing. Get well soon!
 
Thank You,
Mike Szczepanski