NHRA - National Hot Rod Association

Erring on the side of caution to allow permanent driver Buddy Hull’s left hand to continue to heal, Jim Dunn Racing has asked veteran Funny Car driver Jim Campbell to drive the Menards Funny Car at this weekend’s Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals at Brainerd International Raceway. The move is temporary, and Jim Dunn Racing and Hull will continue to evaluate Hull’s readiness to drive following an on-track incident in Sonoma two weeks ago that injured his left hand. Campbell will be earning points for Hull under the medical portion of the driver replacement policy.

“Everyone at Jim Dunn Racing is expecting a speedy recovery for Buddy,” said Jon Dunn. “Buddy has been doing everything in his power to get back into the race car, but we just ran out of time. We appreciate Jim Campbell being available on short notice to drive the Jim Dunn Racing Funny Car this weekend at the Lucas Oil Nationals.”

Hull flew into Brainerd yesterday and spent time with fans at a local Menards store last night signing autographs and posing for photos. He was joined at the appearance by Hall of Fame team owner and crew chief Jim Dunn.

“Being able to spend time with Jim and the fans last night was a boost to my spirit,” said Hull. “I want to get back to racing so bad. My hand is getting better but it isn’t quite there yet. I know I was pushing the timeline to get back on the racetrack and I was really looking for a miracle. I’ll be at the track on Friday talking with Hannah (Rickards) and the fans so definitely come by the Jim Dunn Racing pits and say hello.”

Hull will be at the track Friday talking with fans from the NHRA Stage with Jason Logan, NHRA Pit Emcee, at 1:30 p.m. He will also be providing commentary from the announcers’ booth during each of the nitro sessions. As a seasoned Funny Car and Top Fuel driver Hull’s experience will bring an additional level of insight to the expert analysis for the NHRA PA team.