Racer Isidro Castillo, 32, died on October 11th as a result of injuries he suffered during a crash at Palm Beach International Raceway in Jupiter, Florida, on October 4th. According to the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office, Castillo, of Miami, was racing in a CCS Florida event when he lost control in Turn Two of the newly-revamped facility and hit a wall. Castillo was airlifted to St. Mary’s Hospital, where he was listed in critical condition until his death. CCS Florida race results show Castillo raced a Ducati 748 in Amateur SuperTwins and Amateur Middleweight SuperSport on the day of the crash. And now, comment from a racer… FIRST PERSON/OPINION Via e-mail: I have seen too many fellow racers get seriously injured or worse doing what they love. For some reason after every incident I say to myself, “That could of been avoided.” Yesterday a friend of mine passed away due to head injuries from hitting a wall at the new and improved PBIR. In these times, I look for someone to blame and one person is myself. I was chosen along with a few other racers to inspect the new PBIR and choose tire and barrier placement. I was not happy at all with the wall situation at this track. We told them what needed to be done and it was acknowledged. I blame myself for not making a stink when I showed up for the first event and only half the tires and barriers were installed that were promised. It was unacceptable but I said screw it, let’s race. I am writing this to encourage all racers or non-racers to speak their mind on safety issues and join forces with one another. This is our show, we pay the bills, it’s our safety, if not for us there is no show. If it’s not right we can make it right, take a stand. People do not have to die. So on that note, I, Barrett Long, won’t be riding at PBIR until changes are made and I encourage people to join me. It is just unsafe. R.I.P. Isidro. Barrett Long Miami, Florida