Look for a stronger, leaner Steve Park when he returns from his injuries later this season.

May 18, 1998 -- Anybody feel like a workout? If you do, come join me in North Carolina because that's what I've spent most of the last month doing. My job isn't to drive a racecar right now. Instead, my job is to get well as fast as I can. So for the time being, I have traded my steering wheel for a barbell and my driving suit for gym shorts and a T-shirt.

While my Pennzoil team goes racing with Darrell Waltrip, I spend almost every day working in the gym trying to build more strength in my leg as well as my upper body. That means lots of riding on an exercise bike, stretching and a lot free weights. When I get back in the car, I'm going to be in the best shape I have ever been in. It's been a pretty rigorous schedule so far. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays I workout in the mornings and on Tuesday and Thursdays I workout at night.

I'm lucky because Walt Smith, our team jackman, and his brother Gary Smith, our tire carrier, own the Nautilus Center where I workout. They are tough taskmasters, but I can really see a lot of improvement in my strength and endurance. I worked out before the accident, and I think that has been a factor in my quick recovery so far.

Speaking of the recovery, everyone keeps asking when I'm going to return to the Pennzoil Monte Carlo. Right now if I had to guess, I think I will be back for the Brickyard 400. That means I need to get back in the car for some test sessions in July in order to race in August. Heck, I might even try a few races before, but it all depends on how my leg is healing. The doctors have given me some really good reports so far.

I've thrown away the crutches and use a cane now so my leg won't get used to limping. I hope I can throw away the cane soon, but I'm not going to rush anything. It would be silly to ruin my career rushing back a race or two early. Although, that doesn't mean I don't want to race again. It is so frustrating to sit and watch. I'm not a good spectator, heck; I don't think any race driver makes a good spectator.

I've been to several races since the wreck and plan to go to more. It's nice to go to the track and hear all the fans well wishes, and it's nice to see all of my friends in the Winston Cup garage. Sometimes it gets a little boring and lonely when all you do is workout. Going to the track is a good diversion. Hopefully next time I write to you I will be able to give you a more specific date on my return.

Until then...