Update: Ryan Reed finished the race, but was involved in a post race incident that sent him back to the infield care center. Reed was not hurt in the crash, but received additional IV fluids for a stomach virus and then was released.
Ryan Reed will start the NASCAR Nationwide Series Drive4COPD300 in the 39th position after crashing during qualifying on Friday. There is some concern that Reed may not be able to complete the entire race after spending most of the morning in the infield care center battling either a stomach virus, or food poisoning. He has been receiving IV fluids to help him recover faster.
Reed, 20 years old from Bakersfield, Cali. has type 1 insulin dependant diabetes. He has made six NNS starts earning a top-ten at Richmond last season.
Thanks so much to everyone for all the support. I feel much better and am ready to go out and try and win this thing. #nevergiveup
— Ryan Reed (@driverRyanReed) February 22, 2014
“I am going to start. I do want to drive the whole race if I can.” Reed told ESPN this afternoon.
Roush Fenway Racing has gotten rookie Chris Buescher cleared by NASCAR to step in to drive the No. 16 if Reed is unable to finish the race. Ricky Stenhouse Jr. has also informed the team that he is available to step into the car, if needed.
