INDY 500: Scott Goodyear improving; Takes first steps at Indinapolis hospital

Posted By Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

May 30, 2001

INDIANAPOLIS - Indy Racing Northern Light Series driver Scott Goodyear will remain in Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis for two or three more days after suffering a fractured lower back in an accident during the Indianapolis 500.

Goodyear was injured on Lap 8 of the race May 27 when the spinning car of Sarah Fisher hit his #52 Thermos®Grill2Go(tm) Infiniti Dallara/Infiniti/Firestone, causing Goodyear to hit the outside retaining wall on the back straightaway.

Two-time Indianapolis 500 runner-up Goodyear received a back brace May 28 and took a few steps May 29. He is under the care of noted orthopedic surgeon Dr. Terry Trammell and his staff at Methodist and should return to his suburban Indianapolis home by the end of this week, according to a Cheever Indy Racing statement.

Goodyear will require eight to 12 weeks to recuperate from his injury, according to the team statement. "Obviously I'm disappointed because this stops me from testing for the Cheever Indy Racing team and Infiniti, and I know I will miss the IROC race at Michigan next month, but this accident does not change my planning process at all," Goodyear said. "I'm hopeful that I will be cleared to drive in the IROC event at Indianapolis (in early August), and after that I'll continue testing and planning for 2002."

Goodyear appreciates all of the support he has received from fans and media. But his doctors have requested that he not be disturbed during his stay at Methodist. Cheever Indy Racing respectfully requests that the media not attempt to contact Goodyear at the hospital or team office. The team will provide information on Goodyear's condition when available.

Text provided by Paul Kelly

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