Originally Posted by racerdog45:
Simple facts from Wikipedia...
Hmiel violated NASCAR's substance abuse policy when he tested positive for marijuana in 2003. At the time, he was the highest-profile driver to fail such a test. Hmiel was suspended from September 2003 to January 2004, then reinstated after NASCAR's demands were satisfied. In 2005 he tested positive for marijuana and cocaine, and was suspended "indefinitely" starting in May 2005. Hmiel was offered a chance at reinstatement after his second infraction, under condition that he submit to medical and psychological reviews, and frequent drug testing before reinstatement. In February, 2006, Hmiel failed a drug test, and was banned for life.
Facts are 3, count them 3 failed drug tests, all during racing season, 2 of them for cocaine. Yes MAYBE he is clean now but let me ask you this, if you had a doctor who failed 1, let alone 3 drug tests like this would you allow him to continue? What about a pilot, or fireman or police? I truly HOPE he is clean and changed, I for one tho think he hasn't served enough of a punishment and that he shouldn't be allowed to compete unless he is being tested weekly. I know to younger guys like Casey drugs maybe aren't the same since we see way too many ball players being busted for drugs and steroids but racing has always tried to maintain a higher stand. If you're offended by my stance then I am sorry but it is my honest feelings. I have loved racing since I saw my first race at 6, I will be 46 this next week, and I hate to see any harm come to any form of racing. I truly hope he has cleaned up his act 100%, I just question why him and one other are being allowed to race at the top USAC levels without some type of testing and oversight and without being judged on past as well as present actions. Sorry but his past DOES have alot to do with it and should.....
Just because he failed the drug test at the track doenst mean that he was under the influence at the track. Drugs can stay in your system for days or weeks.