Sprint car racer Chase Johnson was involved in a violent crash during the Mike Curb Gold Cup Race of Champions at Silver Dollar Speedway. The High Limit sprint car race took place last Saturday, and since then, the driver has been in critical condition.
According to an update by Chase Johnson Racing, the driver underwent a nine-hour surgery on Sunday to repair fractures in C4, C5, and C6. The doctors had to remove pieces of bone that broke off during the surgery. It was expected that the driver would stabilize and would be able to speak with his friends and family soon. NASCAR fans and the motorsports community had already sent out prayers for his speedy recovery.
However, the latest update suggests that his condition has taken a turn for the worse. On August 28th, Chase had pneumonia, which saw him struggle to breathe on his own. He also caught a fever, and late in the night, the best option was to put him back on the breathing tube and feeding tube support.
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“At the end of the night, the best option for Chase was to be intubated with a breathing tube and feeding tube. This will hopefully help him get rest overnight. We will see where tomorrow goes. Please continue to pray, wish, and believe in him as he is fighting so hard. He needs all of the love and support everyone has been giving.” This was the statement shared by his team online on social media platforms.
Continued Prayers for Chase Johnson 🙏
Here's the latest update ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/S3rvem7eRX
— Sprint Cars Only (@SprintCarsOnly) August 29, 2024
Acknowledging the message made by Chase’s team members, NASCAR fans and the racing community poured in with their prayers.
NASCAR fans hoping for a positive update on Chase Johnson
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Is the thrill of racing worth the life-threatening risks drivers like Chase Johnson face?
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The 28-year-old is a frequent competitor in the winged sprint car and midget race events. Therefore, when he was involved in a terrifying crash, a lot of fans chimed in with their prayers and messages for recovery. “This isn’t fair for Chase. Good kid, respectful, and just liked to race and never did anyone dirty. Prayers up.”
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Coming from a family of racers, Johnson is a 4th generation racer and 6-time Outlaw Kart Champion. Ever since he has been in critical condition, fans have kept a close eye and tabs on his condition, praying for his condition to improve. “Sending our positive love and healing powers to you chase your strong man you got this and you got an army behind you we’re praying and sending positive vibes.”
This isn’t the first time Chase Johnson has been involved in a terrible crash. Back in 2013, a steering malfunction in his Sprint car caused him to lose control of his vehicle, which resulted in a big crash. The unfortunate accident resulted in the deaths of his 14-year-old cousin Marcus Johnson and an elderly gentleman. This incident shook him to his core and kept him away from racing for months until he finally mustered up the courage to compete again.
His comeback story and success have resonated with a lot of gearheads. This is evident from the widespread support and messages he had been receiving during the past two days. “Prayers and love are overflowing for Chase and WILL NOT STOP. Holding you all with brilliant light and unwavering support 💗”
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Race fans from as far as Australia took note of this crash and sent out prayers. “Thinking of Chase and his family as he continues to fight this battle as his body tries to heal. Sending love and support from Australia. Keeping you all in my thoughts.”
Aligning with the sentiments of all the race fans, we at EssentiallySports extend our thoughts and prayers to Chase Johnson.
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Is the thrill of racing worth the life-threatening risks drivers like Chase Johnson face?