Brack replaces Rice for Indy 500

INDIANAPOLIS, May 18 (UPI) -- Kenny Brack will replace the injured Buddy Rice at the Indianapolis 500 May 29 following recovery from his own injury a year ago.

Brack was knocked out of Indy Racing League competition last year when he suffered a broken back, two broken ankles, and a thigh injury. He passed a physical Tuesday night and was named to substitute for Rice, the defending Indianapolis 500 champion.

Rice was injured in a crash last Wednesday during a practice lap.

Rice is in stable condition with a partially torn spinal ligament in his mid-to-lower neck that is essential to maintaining the alignment of the spine.

Doctors have recommended rest and rehabilitation and Rice will be re-assessed in about three weeks.