Larry Pearson sustains multiple fractures

Larry Pearson, son of three-time NASCAR Sprint Cup champion David Pearson, sustained fractures to his lower left ankle, pelvis and right hand during a frightening crash Saturday in a legends race at Bristol Motor Speedway.

The 56-year-old Pearson, a two-time Nationwide Series champion, was knocked unconscious after the car of Charlie Glotzbach slammed into the driver's-side door of Pearson's late model stock car in Turn 2 at the high-speed .533-mile short track. Emergency workers extricated Pearson by cutting the roll cage of his car.

Pearson was to undergo surgery to repair his broken ankle Saturday night.

According to ESPN analyst Dr. Jerry Punch, who spoke with Pearson's brothers, Ricky and Eddie Pearson, Larry Pearson regained consciousness before he was lifted out of the car on a backboard and transported by ambulance to a waiting helicopter, where he was airlifted to a nearby hospital.

David Pearson, who also was competing in the 35-lap event, withdrew from the race to visit his son in the hospital. Glotzbach, 71, was treated in the infield care centre and taken to a local hospital for further examination. Glotzbach is said to be in good condition, SceneDaily.com reported.

The Pearson family confirmed Larry Pearson's injuries, according to a statement sent to the track.

The legends race, won by former Sprint Cup driver Rick Wilson, was not a NASCAR-sanctioned event.

by Reid Spencer / Sporting News