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NASCAR WCUP: Craven Resigns, Dallenbach to Drive Remainder of Season

12 August 1998

By Terry Callahan
Motorsporst Editor, The Auto Channel

Ricky Craven
CHARLOTTE, NC: A month ago, Ricky Craven returned to the seat of the number 50 Budweiser Chevrolet Monte Carlo for Hendrick Motorsports. Craven sat out most of the season after being diagnosed with post concussion syndrome. Craven's return to the seat didn't last long. He resigned from the ride Tuesday evening.

Craven will be replaced by Wally Dallenbach Jr. for the remainder of the 1998 NASCAR Winston Cup season. Dallenbach Jr. filled in for the ailing Craven four times during Craven's recovery. Dallenbach posted three top-ten finishes in that short time. Dallenbach's best finish was seventh at Pocono while driving the Hendrick car.

John Hendrick, the president of Hendrick Motorsports, said, "The decision was a mutual one between Hendrick Motorsports and Ricky and was based on what was best for him and his career, the team and our sponsors." Hendrick continued, "Ricky is a talented driver, but sometimes these situations don't work out, and a change is in the best interest of everyone."

Craven had several on track accidents which aggravated his medical condition. His worst incident occurred at the Texas Motor Speedway in April 97 during a practice session. Post concussion syndrome is a condition which causes dizziness in its victims.

Craven's most recent Winston Cup effort was at Watkins Glen International. Craven finished 35th in that event.

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