SPARTANBURG, SC – CompetitionPlus is mourning the loss of staff member Chris Haverly, who was killed Tuesday in a single-car accident in Wytheville, Virginia.
“Chris and I came up the ranks under the mentorship of the late Dave Bishop, who welcomed us in as kids and taught us more than how to be journalists but good people,” said CompetitionPlus.com Editor/Publisher Bobby Bennett. “Chris was a kind and gentle soul and always did what it took to help us bring the readers of CompetitionPlus.com the best photography. He was one of the most selfless people I ever met. My heart is broken.”
Chris Haverly was a beloved fixture at drag races across the country. photo courtesy of Rhonda McCole
CompetitionPlus Mourns the Loss of Chris Haverly
SPARTANBURG, SC – CompetitionPlus is mourning the loss of staff member Chris Haverly, who was killed Tuesday in a single-car accident in Wytheville, Virginia.
“Chris and I came up the ranks under the mentorship of the late Dave Bishop, who welcomed us in as kids and taught us more than how to be journalists but good people,” said CompetitionPlus.com Editor/Publisher Bobby Bennett. “Chris was a kind and gentle soul and always did what it took to help us bring the readers of CompetitionPlus.com the best photography. He was one of the most selfless people I ever met. My heart is broken.”
Chris Haverly was a beloved fixture at drag races across the country. photo courtesy of Rhonda McCole
Haverly was deeply rooted in drag racing and widely respected as a photographer for his tireless work and welcoming presence in the pits. Beyond the race track, he dedicated much of his life to rescuing animals—transporting dogs and cats from high-risk shelters to rescues, fostering animals in his home, and helping families keep their pets during difficult times.
“Chris was a true hero,” CompetitionPlus.com photographer Rhonda McCole said. “He dedicated his life to rescuing animals and never turned any unwanted animal away. He was passionate about drag racing and a favorite in the pits, always ready with a joke or kind word.”
Details surrounding the accident were limited as of Wednesday. CompetitionPlus will respect the privacy of Haverly’s family during this difficult time.
The CompetitionPlus team extends its deepest condolences to Haverly’s family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work.
