[autotag]Denny Hamlin[/autotag] started the 2024 NASCAR season on the perfect note with a pole and victory at the Busch Light Clash at The Coliseum. There was a time when Hamlin was unsure that he would race due to shoulder surgery in the offseason. However, no backup driver was needed, and the Joe Gibbs Racing competitor made a statement to open the new campaign.
Following the unofficial event, Hamlin was asked about his shoulder and how it felt. The driver of the No. 11 car had a positive response and one that can officially put the narrative to bed on his overall health going into Daytona International Speedway.
You know I beat your favorite driver again right?
Denny Hamlin is ready for 2024 pic.twitter.com/dVcQWmh7As
— Skewcar (@Skewcar) February 4, 2024
“It is very good,” Hamlin. “We knew that this race was going to fatigue it a little bit. Adrenaline is such a factor. Like last year even though it was really, really bad, adrenaline once you get in the car, it’s a lot different. But overall, it feels better than I thought it would, considering how far you have to crank the wheel at this racetrack. But the race is just short enough to fatigue it a little bit, so when I get to Daytona, I’ll be nice and strong.”
That is exactly what Hamlin and his doctors wanted to hear, as the shoulder appears to be progressing positively. Now, the 43-year-old driver will focus on winning his fourth Daytona 500. Hamlin has a long way to go throughout the 2024 NASCAR season, but having a good and healthy start never hurts.
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