Palone nearing return

Dave Palone, who ranks third on harness racing's career win list, said today his rehabilitation from a serious leg injury is weeks, if not months, ahead of schedule, and that he expects to resume driving shortly.

Palone said he's been working horses for his brother, trainer Mike Palone. "The leg felt pretty good,” he reports, “though I know it's not the same as a race.”

It was on April 10 that Palone was catapulted from the bike in a race at The Meadows, landing violently on his right leg. The resulting injuries, multiple fractures of the thighbone, required surgical insertion of a metal rod and pins to stabilize the bone. Doctors projected that the limb would not bear weight for six weeks, with a substantial period of rehabilitation to follow. Palone has astonished even his doctors with his rapid recovery.

“At my last appointment, the doctor couldn't believe the extent of bone growth and how good everything looked,” Palone said. “He said, 'If it looks this good the next time, I might be able to release you.' I thought he was crazy.

“But that's what happened. They left driving to my discretion. I'm still walking with a limp until I build my quad muscles back up. I know that I still have to get a little stronger.”

Palone attributed his swift recovery to the care of his wife, Bethann, an occupational therapist by profession, and he said water therapy helped him regain his range of motion. He also credited the encouragement of John Campbell, who underwent similar rehabilitation following a serious injury.

“He called me a couple times to let me know what worked for him and what didn't,” Palone said. “He told me to kick the serious pain medicines. That was tough, but I'm glad I did. I'm a huge John Campbell fan. He's a class act, and not just on the racetrack. He's harness racing's best ambassador.

“I'd also like to thank everybody for their cards and gifts. Their well wishes meant a lot to me. When I talk about it, I get a little choked up.”

The Meadows general manager John Marshall was delighted to learn of Palone's impending return.

“It will be a great day when Dave gets back into action,” he said. “Our drivers' colony has matured into one of harness racing's very best, and Dave is a primary reason for that.”

Palone said he turned down several opportunities to drive in a Pennsylvania Sires Stake this Saturday at The Meadows.

“I've always been able to bounce back pretty quickly,” he said, “but in my wildest dreams I didn't expect this. But I don't want to feel rushed. I may try to qualify some before I drive in a race. I want to make sure I come back ready to drive well.” (The Meadows)

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