McClure Sidelined With Acute Kidney Failure

NASCAR Nationwide Series driver Eric McClure, who missed last week’s race at Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, has been diagnosed with acute renal failure and will miss Friday night’s race at Bristol Motor Speedway.

Hospitalized on Aug. 12 because of elevated creatinine levels, McClure tweeted that he hopes to be released from the hospital later today. “Going home today,” he said. ”Thanks everyone 4 all the kind words. Not sure how much more my family can take, but thankful 4 the blessings God gives...”

McClure’s return to the seat of the Hefty/Reynolds Wrap-sponsored No. 14 TriStar Motorsports entry is uncertain. Former series champion Jeff Green will replace him this weekend at Bristol. He is currently 18th in the Nationwide Series championship standings.

“This has been a very challenging week for me, both physically and emotionally,” said McClure in a prepared statement today. “Having a newborn and four other little girls, among other things, has also presented a challenge to my family.

“Recovery can be a slow and frustrating process, but thankfully we are seeing signs of healing. I can’t thank everyone enough for all of the prayers, thoughts and well-wishes during this difficult time. I can’t wait to be back behind the wheel.”

McClure missed races last year due to internal injuries and a concussion suffered in a crash at Talladega Superspeedway. He also battled the Esptein-Barr virus in 2011, and his Abingdon, VA home suffered severe tornado damage in April of that year.