Rudd and Pit Crew Progress: The recovery of Winston Cup driver Ricky Rudd, who underwent arthoscopic back surgery in Charlotte shortly following the annual banquet weekend, continues to progress. “My recovery is on schedule and I’m looking forward to racing in the Daytona 500 in February,” Rudd said Friday in a statement. Rudd drives the #28 Fords for Robert Yates Racing. In addition, all three Yates crew members injured in a pit road accident at Homestead, Fla., in November plan to return to their duties in time for the 2002 Daytona 500. Bobby Burrell, front-tire changer, is home recovering from head injuries. On Dec. 5, he started working with the team trainer on hand-to-eye coordination drills and plans to return to work after the first of the year. John Bryan, jack man, has returned to work and also anticipates starting pit stop practice after the first of the year. Kevin Hall, front-tire carrier, has returned to work and resumed pit stop practice with the team.(That’s Racin’)(12-15-2001)
