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Press Releases by Michelle Theriault
June 24, 2004
Michelle Theriault Returns to USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series Action
Michelle Theriault, driver of the No. 8 Nergy Fitness Drink Ford Taurus, returns to USAR Hooters Pro Cup Series action after skipping the most recent event, held at USA International Speedway, while she recovered from a lower back injury.
Theriault, 18, of Alpharetta, GA, injured her back in a crash on April 24 at Concord Motorsports Park. Racing on the rough surface at the Music City Motorplex on May 22 aggravated the injury further, forcing her to miss the one event.
"That was the most difficult weekend of my racing career," explained Theriault. "Being a racer, I never want to miss any of the action and hope I never have to again. At first I thought time off would be relaxing, but it really wasn't. My life has always revolved around being at the track. Watching the race on TV made me home sick or, should I say, 'car sick.' I've been counting down
the days until I can again enjoy the smells of gas fumes and tires. I can't even explain how excited I am to be back racing."
During Theriault's time away from the track, she underwent a rigorous physical therapy regimen and has returned to full strength.
"I feel better than I did before the start of the season," continued Theriault. "Therapy corrected my back injury and has made me stronger than I've ever been. I feel completely re-energized. For me this is the start of a new season."
The Hooters Air 250 marks Michelle Theriault's first start at Myrtle Beach Speedway in the USAR Hooters ProCup Series.
"Several times this season, the first time I've been on a track was in the first practice session; so this isn't anything new," said Theriault. "I've actually become quite used to it."
Last month, Michelle Theriault graduated from Milton High School in Alpharetta, Georgia. She was an honor student with a 4.0 GPA. The driver of the No. 8 Nergy Fitness Drink Ford will attend the University of Georgia in the Fall.
Michelle Theriault is the only full-time female competitor in the USAR Hooters ProCup Series.
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