Pontiac racing legend Arnie "The Farmer" Beswick, critically injured in a post-race car fire on August 3rd at Mid-America Raceway in Wentzville, Missouri, is finally home from the hospital and is making progress in his recovery.
Beswick, who suffered third-degree burns on his hands, feet and face, had been a patient at St John's Mercy Medical Center in St. Louis until his release on September 19th. He is now back in Morrison, Illinois and is convalescing at home.
In a phone conversation on Thursday, October 2nd, Arnie sounded very upbeat and cheerful. He said that the skin grafts are healing well and while the physical therapy on his hands is difficult, it is getting better. He said that he is very much looking forward to getting out and about again. "The Tiger thought he could tame me, but I'm still Tameless," Beswick said with a chuckle.
Arnie also added that the tiger in question, his "Tameless Tiger" 1964 GTO racecar, is being rebuilt. Though the car's interior was damaged by the flames, the chassis and drivetrain escaped largely unscathed. VFN will be building replacement body panels and the renovation will be handled by Arnie's Crew Chief, John Holmes and his wife Janette. "I trust him completely and am grateful that he has offered to help, Beswick replied, because in my situation, I cannot do it myself."
Arnie said that he sincerely appreciates all of the cards, e-mails and prayers for his recovery. In the interest of his recuperation however, he and his family ask well-wishers not to call, as he needs his rest and the phone lines have been continuously tied up since he returned home. For more updates, please log on to his website at http://www.arniebeswick.com.