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“I’m Not Very Smart” – Returning Hendrick Motorsports Prodigy on Racing the Longest Race in NASCAR After Injury, Will This Confidence Show on Track?

Published 05/28/2023, 5:47 AM EDT

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USA Today via Reuters

Hendrick Motorsports prodigy, Alex Bowman, has been on the mend after a sprint car accident last month left him with a fractured vertebra. This injury sidelined him from three Cup races. Despite this setback, the Coca-Cola 600, this season’s most grueling race, is slated as his triumphant return to the Hendrick Motorsports No. 48 Chevrolet.

However, in light of his recent injury and the daunting race ahead, Bowman displayed unflinching confidence. Addressing the media at a press conference, he conveyed his readiness to endure the arduous race. He reassured everyone that despite the challenges; he was ready to meet the high expectations set for the upcoming weekend.

Alex Bowman assures his confidence in running NASCAR’s longest race

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Ahead of the grueling 600-mile race at the iconic Charlotte Motor Speedway, Bowman assured all spectators and stakeholders of his unwavering confidence. He stood ready to tackle NASCAR’s longest race, undeterred by the demanding distance and the challenges it presents.

Bowman stated, I’m not very smart. So that might be part of it. But no, I just, you know, running laps in the car on Tuesday, like, it didn’t hurt.”

Further adding, “The physical act of driving the race car was fine. So yeah, it’s gonna be a long night and I’m going to be pretty sore by the end of it.”

Finally, the HMS driver said, But yeah, I’m confident. I wish I had practice like that would probably make me a little more confident. But I wouldn’t be back here if I wasn’t confident that I could run the whole race.”

The grueling 600-mile race will be a challenge for the Hendrick Motorsports prodigy

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While recovering, Bowman missed three critical Cup points races. This absence has cost him dearly, placing him five points shy of the 16th spot—the last qualifying position for the playoffs. With only 13 races left in the regular season, every point counts, adding a layer of urgency to his comeback.

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via Getty

Despite these pressures, Bowman’s resilience remains unyielding, mirroring the spirit of a true NASCAR competitor. Bowman acknowledges the lingering pain, especially with certain movements. “There’s some discomfort here and there, and there are things that I do that don’t feel good,” Bowman admitted.

“But that’s just part of it, and stuff I’m gonna have to deal with. … At the end of a six-hour race, I’m probably not going to feel my best.”

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The candid admission showcases the racer’s grit and determination. It also reveals his self-awareness, acknowledging the physical strain the upcoming race would impose on him, but standing firm on his capability to endure it. Despite the missed practice and his recent accident, he showed unwavering determination to participate and compete.

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Written by:

Srijan Mandal

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Srijan Mandal is a NASCAR writer at EssentiallySports. With a Master's Degree in Journalism from a top institution, Srijan has written over 1000 articles across various platforms. His passion for racing began at a young age and has only grown stronger over time.
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Edited by:

Akash Pandhare