Miller Lite Dodge crew chief Pat Tryson got the word that his blue #2 Miller Lite Dodge Team would start on the pole for Saturday night’s Bud Shootout almost immediately after driver Kurt Busch drew the top starting spot just after 7:00 p.m. tonight here at Daytona International Speedway. The last time Tryson had talked to or had seen his driver was some eight hours earlier. At 11:30am/et Thursday morning, Tryson could be found consoling his driver as Busch lay on the hospital gurney in the infield medical center, being administered intravenous fluids. “He’s a skinny little dude, but he’s as tough as nails,” Tryson said of Busch late Thursday night. “I told him this morning that his health is the number one priority and after seeing him laying there earlier today, I can’t believe he’s done all they tell me he has since then.” Busch had been bedridden with the flu at his Mooresville, N.C., home since Monday night. He mustered enough energy to make it down to Daytona Beach this morning, only to be ushered straight to the infield medical center and put under the resident physician’s care. Although an hour late, Busch was suited up and completed the afternoon’s hectic “NASCAR Media Day” schedule before taking a break prior to the qualifying draw for Saturday night’s special event for last year’s pole winners. The 2004 NASCAR champ was admittedly weak, but incredibly joyous with the outcome of the draw. While Busch is certain to start from the inside of the front row here on Saturday night, his status for practice on Friday is yet to be determined. “Just like I told Kurt this morning, he doesn’t have to be in the car for early practice if he doesn’t feel up to it,” Tryson said. “We’ll play it by ear and hopefully he gets a great night’s rest and is ready to go tomorrow (Friday). He’s had a tough day here today and has already shown what a champion competitor that he is.”(Tom Roberts PR)(2-8-2008) .
