Montana to Clark one last time, on streets of Candlestick Point
As usual, Joe Montana made the perfect pass to his buddy Dwight Clark.
At a ceremony Sunday afternoon to announce the naming of streets at a new housing development at Candlestick Point in honor of the sports legends who once played there, Montana stole the show.
In accepting the honor of “Joe Montana Drive,” in the rotunda of City Hall, Montana made a request.
“I’d like to ask that you change it to Montana-Clark Drive,” Montana said, nodding to Clark, who was in the front row. “To honor my very special friend.”
Clark, 60, recently revealed that he has been diagnosed with ALS, a progressive neurodegenerative disease. On an afternoon that included Eddie DeBartolo Jr., Carmen Policy, Jerry Rice and Willie McCovey, Clark was a focal point.
“Guys are respectful and responsive at the same time,” Montana said of Clark’s battle, mentioning how the team’s theme during its dynasty years was “one heartbeat.”
“He’s going through a tough thing.”
Clark, trim and tan and wearing a dark suit, declined to speak publicly about his fight but said that he will at a later time. He said he’s been touched by the outpouring of support, both from his team and the 49ers fan base. He said that DeBartolo has been there every step of the way.
On Sunday, in addition to the street names, a mural was unveiled depicting “the Catch.” It will be placed in a public spot in the new development, as close to the location of the actual catch as possible.
Also honored with street names in the development are former 49er Ronnie Lott and ex-Giants Barry Bonds, Juan Marichal and Orlando Cepeda, who weren’t in attendance.
The bond between Montana and Clark continues to be evident, through the teasing that began when they were rookies in Rocklin almost 40 years ago.
“The first time he saw me, he thought I was the kicker,” Montana said. “If it wasn’t for that well-placed throw, we’d still be chasing the Cowboys.”
Clark said that Montana could never make the throw in practice. But, he said, with a berth in the Super Bowl on the line “he puts it in the exact spot.”
“He says, ‘Then maybe it should be called ‘the Throw,’ ” Clark said with a laugh. “Give me my one play!”
Montana said his wife, Jennifer, suggested that he and Clark share the street sign name. Montana didn’t know if it would be hyphenated or become “Montana to Clark Drive.”
“When they put the sign up they’ll have to lower the speed limit,” Montana said. “Because everyone knows Dwight wasn’t very fast.”