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IRL: Hamilton on the mend, wants to race at Phoenix

12 February 2000

Posted by Terry Callahan
Motorsports Editor, The Auto Channel

INDIANAPOLIS- There is a chance that Davey Hamilton will keep the streak alive in Phoenix.

Hamilton is the only driver to start all 35 Indy Racing League events since the leagues inception. But that streak appeared in jeopardy after he suffered a minimal T-12 back fracture in an accident during the season-opening Delphi Indy 200 at Walt Disney World Speedway last month.

But now Hamilton has his eyes on participating in the MCI WorldCom Indy 200 on March 19 at Phoenix.

"My injury to my T-12 vertebra was so small that I dont have any pain or discomfort," said Hamilton, who added that he still can perform such tasks as picking up his 3-year-old son. "My doctor has me wearing a brace just to protect me while it is healing.

"Obviously I would like to be in the drivers seat by Phoenix, and my injury is not hampering me from being there. I am still working with Rick Galles on sponsorship for the rest of the season, and if another good ride comes along for me in the meantime, then Rick and I will look at that option together. What is most important to me is that whatever ride I have is with a good, solid team."

Hamilton has not been cleared to drive yet by Dr. Henry Bock, Indy Racing League director of medical services. But Hamilton said he is visiting a doctor March 1 for a checkup and hopes to be cleared shortly thereafter.

Text provided by: IRL

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