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IRL: Johnny Unser to race in 1998 Indianapolis 500

1 May 1998

Johnny Unser will be returning to Indianapolis this year to compete in his third consecutive Indianapolis 500, driving the #9 Delta Faucet Dallara-Aurora for Hemelgarn Racing. This will be Johnny's second year with Hemelgarn Racing as a teammate to former Indy champion Buddy Lazier, and he is looking forward to being part of the team.

"I'm pleased to be able to return to Indy with Ron Hemelgarn & the rest of the team", said Unser. " I had a great experience with them last year and I'm looking forward to being with them again this year. They are an experienced team that knows how to set the car up just right and knows how to win. "

Johnny will join the team on May 3rd, and will attempt to qualify for the race beginning on May 16th & 17th. "Qualifying will be tough, because there are a lot of very competitive teams out here this year, but I have a lot of confidence in the team to prepare a great car, and we'll give it our best in qualification."

Another Unser will also be at Indy this year, attempting to qualify for his first Indianapolis 500. Robby Unser, son of 3-time Indy winner Bobby Unser, and Johnny's cousin, will be driving for Eddie Cheever in this year's race. Robby is a veteran most recently of Indy Lights, but has an extensive racing background and should be a strong contender with the Cheever team.