Gordon says back is stiff after bad accident

[August 14, 2009]  CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- Four-time NASCAR champion Jeff Gordon has a stiff back a day after a spectacular accident at Watkins Glen.

Gordon has been bothered by an aching back for more than a year, and the hard impact from Monday's accident increased his discomfort. But he says he'll be ready to race this weekend at Michigan International Speedway.

Jeff Burton says the accident left him sore all over on Tuesday, while the crew chief for Sam Hornish Jr. says his driver is surprised at how well he feels.

The three got the worst of the six-car accident that began when Hornish was run off course into a tire barrier. His car shot back onto the track and into the path of Gordon, who went head-on into a steel barrier.

[Associated Press; By JENNA FRYER]

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