The tragic death of 7-year-old Elienisse Zoe Diaz Rodriguez in a drag-racing accident at a popular east Orange County speedway is generating grief, sympathy, and focus on a sport that enthusiasts insist is generally safe — even for children too young to drive a regular automobile.

Motorsports is built on passion, but moments like these remind us of the risks that come with what we love,” the dragway said in a statement.