Yates being held at Halifax for observation

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. -- Car owner Robert Yates went to Halifax Medical Center at approximately 5 a.m. ET Friday morning complaining of chest pains and shortness of breath.

Yates, owner of the No. 28 Havoline Ford driven by Ricky Rudd and the No. 88 UPS Ford of Dale Jarrett, was driven to the hospital and not rushed in by an ambulance. Halifax is located less than a mile from Daytona International Speedway where Yates is staying in his motor coach.

Yates, 58, was said to be awake, doing well and in good spirits after arriving at the hospital. He underwent a series of tests and upon completion of a cardiac catheterization, it was determined he suffered no heart problems.

Yates is being held for observation.

“I didn’t find out until I came to the track this morning the he (Yates) woke up with chest pains,” said Rudd. “Obviously, that’s not good so I guess they’re keeping a pretty close eye on him.

“I think Robert has worried himself over this spoiler issue. It’s bad to say it that way. Hopefully, it doesn’t get any more serious. But, stress I’m sure has probably helped produce whatever problem he’s got.”

Steve Post, media relations for Havoline Racing, said that further updates of Yates condition would be provided.