#11- Denny Hamlins latest scan is done. Now hes waiting for doctors to read the results and arrive at a consensus of opinion as to whether he can race this weekend at Richmond International Raceway. ‘A doctor has seen a scan [Tuesday], but, obviously, theres a large team of doctors who have to have a consensus’ Hamlin said Wednesday morning during a visit to the Grooming Lounge in downtown Washington. ‘Until all of them get the images, were still waiting on that. They should have them this morning. ‘Hopefully, by the end of the day, everyone will have consensus and have time to review whats the safe thing to do.” Whether hes approved to race at Richmond or not, Hamlin plans to start the race the following week at Talladega and then give way to a relief driver. Hell exit the car at Talladega at the first opportunity after riding in the back. ‘We do have an agreement, I believe, on starting next week and getting out, so at least well get some points starting next week’ Hamlin said. ‘After that, I dont know. It just depends on what the doctors, the results of this (the scan) are and when they want to re-scan and check progression again. Hamlin is leaning toward back surgery during the offseason “ or perhaps sooner if his prospects of making the Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup evaporate “ because the compression fracture exacerbated a problem with bulging disks that existed before the crash. The bulging disks are far more painful to the 32-year-old-driver than the compression fracture was. ‘(The accident) really screwed em up’ Hamlin said. ‘Im at the point now where, if they dont let me back in the car in a timely fashion, where Im going to be racing for nothing for the rest of the year, Id just as soon do it now and get it over with and come back next year strong and ready to go.” (NASCAR Wire Service)(4-24-2013) UPDATE: Hamlin tweeted Wednesday evening, ‘Unfortunately I wont be racing this weekend at Richmond. It kills me to not be in the car for my team and sponsors but after long discussions with the doctors we have decided to wait on my return back to racing. Thanks to all of my fans who have sent encouraging messages over the last month. Ill be back in no time.”
