Some of you might remember the piece I drew entitled "Stirling Performance." My purpose for the drawing was a tribute to the career of Sir Stirling Moss, legendary British racing driver. Even though Sir Stirling retired from active racing a year before I was born, I would read everything I could about his career behind the wheel. He raced everything (84 different makes/models) and did it with skill.
Upon completion of the drawing the thought came to me "You should send a print to him." Of course I had no mailing address but fortunately a friend in the UK did. I sent the print off hoping it would actually make it into Mr. Moss' hands.
Weeks went by. I had pretty much forgotten about the print. One day last week I arrived home from work to find my wife, letter in hand, grinning like it was Christmas Day. She said "Someone pretty special has written you."
I open the letter and it's from Sir Stirling Moss himself! A personal letter. Not a secretarial, stamped signature letter. This is summary of what it said:
Dear Lyle,
I have just returned from overseas to find your fantastic drawing waiting for me. How very kind of you to send it to me and what a talent you have. You should definitely turn professional and earn a living at it!
I am currently in the process of refurbishing my home after a flood last summer so when it's all finished I shall take great delight in getting it framed and finding a suitable place of honour to hang it.
I close sending my best wishes and many thanks again.
Ciao,
Stirling Moss O.B.E.






