Guest: Mary Downing

Last Updated on Thursday, 28 January 2010 18:48 Written by Barbara Nieweg Friday, 15 January 2010 15:55

 Interview with Kenny's teacher Mary Downing

Question #1 What did other teachers think of Kenny?

ANSWER: Kenny was probably not every teacher's dream student, but I do know of two that found him delightful. His science teacher was one and my late husband, who taught photography was the other (By the way, Kenny met his wife Kim in this class). Neither had strict come in, sit down, and listen classrooms. Both had a knack for being able to have more "loose" styles of teaching that were still orderly and conducive for learning. Kenny did well in that type of environment.

 Other than a friend who made a remark one time that Kenny exasperated her because of distracting behavior and absences, I honestly don't remember hearing any other teacher's remarks. There may have been others who made comments, but I rarely placed myself in situations to discuss students with other teachers because I found that a problem for one wasn't for someone else. I preferred to make my own assessments.

Question #2 Was Kenny more of a "class clown" or was he more serious?

ANSWER: You've got to be kidding! Not that Kenny doesn't have a serious side. I wouldn't have described him as the "class clown," but he definitely came closer to that descriptive. He once asked me what two words would I use to describe him as a student--annoyingly entertaining came immediately to mind. As I was a serious-minded teacher who tried to have good discipline in the classroom, his antics and comments were often annoying; but as a person who loves to be entertained, I often found myself trying to keep from laughing while I asked him to become quiet and settle down. I never had to send him to a principal. Kenny might have been distracting, but his behavior was never intended to be disrespectful.

 

Question #3 Did Kenny ever skip class to go race?

ANSWER: My class was his last one of the day his sophomore year. Kenny often missed class on Fridays because at that time he was working in the pit for Rusty. The school administration and teachers were aware of the reason for his absences, so he wasn't considered "skipping." However, as Kenny mentions in his book Inside Herman's World, our school had a policy concerning the number of days a student could miss classes. Because he had missed many more days than allowed, he had to appear before the school board near the end of his junior year. He explained that during those absences, he was already pursuing his career. Kenny impressed and convinced the members with his sincerity (an example of his serious side). His absences were my main concern because he was missing work I thought was important, and he didn't always make up the work, lowering his grade. I couldn't understand why Kenny wasn't more concerned. My husband helped my perception. Kenny had one goal: to race; school happened to be a wooden bridge he had to cross to be free to pursue his goal. If there happened to be a plank missing here or there, he'd just jump to the next one, but he would arrive at the other end. The best thing to do was help him as much as possible and leave the rest to him. Time and Kenny have proved my husband correct.

A few years ago, I had the privilege of hearing Kenny speak at an event. Afterwards, I mentioned to him how impressed I was. He had that special grin on his face when he told me that he had paid attention more than I thought he had. True

 

Question #4 Looking back now, were there indications that Kenny would become this successful

ANSWER: When I had Kenny in class, I knew his whole life revolved around racing, but it was actually a few years after he graduated that I really realized the possibilites. He happened to be on campus one afternoon as my husband and I were leaving. During our visit he told us that he had a car, owner, and sponsor and he had actually started career racing. I remember his face was so animated as he talked about his early successes and his dream for his future. Later my husband made the remark that Kenny had the determination that it takes to succeed. He said, "I bet we hear about this kid winning races in the 'big time' in years to come. Wouldn't that be terrific?" Of course, I agreed! We both thought that Kenny's personality, determination, and optimism would be assets for him. We continued to keep up with his career. After my husband's death, I managed to follow "Herman's" successes. He truly earned his way. I wasn't really surprised that he has become a successful driver, a fan favorite, and a television star. I know Rich would say, "Way to go, kid!"

 

Question #5 What was the funniest thing Kenny ever said in class?

ANSWER: The funniest thing was not exactly what Kenny said but what he was doing. One afternoon before the tardy bell had rung, I noticed two or three boys that sat near Kenny were turned toward him, and I heard them saying, "Come on, Kenny. Come on." Kenny was sitting in a regular student desk, but it became a race car with Kenny becoming the driver, providing all the sounds (the engine, squealling tires, braking, changing gears, etc.) and actions (arms and legs in motion). He had all of the students' attention, as well as mine. By this time the bell to start class was history. After I managed to almost choke on my own laughter, I unsuccessfully tried to get Kenny's attention. After all, almost all the other students were cheering him on to win the race! The mayhem lasted a few more minutes until I walked back to Kenny and told him the race was over!

 

Personal Note:

Kenny is the "real" thing. I have managed to keep in touch with him, Kim, and their three wonderful daughters over the years. He is dedicated to his family and racing. I fell in love with the sport of racing because of Kenny. He is an excellent spokesman for the sport. I believe he does for racing what Dizzy Dean did for baseball--They may not always use correct grammar, but their enthusiam rallies others to love their sports of racing and baseball!

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