Tony Stewart had a hard time composing himself during his first media appearance after the accident that took the life of another race car driver, Kevin Ward Jr.
Stewart took the time to read a three minute statement which he prepared. It was evident that Stewart was emotional during the whole ordeal and had called the incident as "one of the toughest tragedies I've ever had to deal with."
Right after ninety minutes or so, Stewart climbed inside his No. 14 car and sped toward the high-banked oval at Atlanta Motor Speedway. He received cheers from the crowd that gathered to listen to him speak.
This is the start of Tony Stewart's healing process.
Stewart missed the last three races and went into seclusion. Now, he is back in his element as he has rejoined the race for the NASCAR Sprint Cup championship surrounded by those he considers a second family - his team, his crew, as well as his rivals.
According to Stewart "This is something that will definitely affect my life forever. This is a sadness and a pain I hope no one has to experience in their life. That being said, I know that the pain and mourning that Kevin Ward's family and friends are experiencing is something that I can't possibly imagine."
Stewart will start to race once more while the investigation is still taking place. According to the police, it will take another couple of weeks before a decision can be made.
Stewart mention Wards family member by name including the latter's parents and three sisters saying that he wanted them "to know that every day I'm thinking about them and praying for them."
Stewart cited the reason for his absence during the last few races saying "I've taken the last couple of weeks off out of respect for Kevin and his family and also to cope with the accident in my own way. t's given me the time to think about life and how easy it is to take it for granted. I miss my team, my teammates and I miss being back in the race car, and I think being back in the car this week with my racing family will help me get through this difficult time."
