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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Thursday, January 28, 2010

Auto racing: NASCAR champ Johnson crashes in practice


Associated Press

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Four-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson has crashed during practice for this weekend's 24-hour race at Daytona International Speedway.

A spokeswoman for Johnson says the driver is feeling fine and hoping to get back behind the wheel for another practice on Friday.

Kristine Curley says Johnson is still planning to drive in the Rolex 24 At Daytona, a daylong race on Daytona's 3.56-mile road course.

Johnson damaged the rear end of his No. 99 Chevrolet Riley Daytona Prototype on Thursday trying to avoid a slower car. He hit the brakes, turned sideways, slid backward and slammed into the wall.

Johnson's team is planning to rush parts to Daytona and work through the night in hopes of getting the car back on the track by Friday.