Sun, 23 Sep 2001, 03:46 PM Jim Yates Update

Courtesy of NHRA Communications

MILLINGTON, Tenn. -- Jim Yates, No. 1 qualifier in Pro Stock for today's eliminations, will not compete. Yates, 48, became ill yesterday and is still undergoing tests at the Regional Medical Center at Memphis to determine the source of his illness. He is scheduled to see a physician this morning. While no diagnosis has been made, he is reported to be resting comfortably and his vital signs are good. Yates will receive 38 points today in his quest for a third NHRA Winston Pro Stock championship. Entering today's event he was second in the point standings, 80 behind leader Warren Johnson. He would have faced his teammate, Rickie Smith, in the first round. Smith, who is driving an identical Splitfire/Peak Pontiac Grand Am, will receive a bye.