Morgen Baird was set to make his first start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series
This weekend, NASCAR is racing in Richmond, Virginia. Morgen Baird was set to make his first start in the NASCAR Xfinity Series.
On Friday, JD Motorsports announced a sudden driver change. Garrett Smithley is now set to drive the No. 6 car.
Baird was already en route to Richmond, Virginia. He elected to turn around and head back to Michigan to be with his family.
Baird’s fiance Victoria is pregnant with a baby boy. She was told by doctors to begin emergency labor. Morgen elected to skip his debut to be by his wife’s side in the hospital.
Update: Morgen and Victoria have welcomed a healthy boy into the world. Brody was born at 11pm on Friday night.
Morgen Baird announces he won’t race at Richmond
“While on my way to Richmond for this weekends Xfinity race, I received an urgent call from my fiance, Victoria, stating that she was ordered by doctors to be induced for labor immediately due to the lack of blood flow our baby boy was receiving while in the womb, along with measuring smaller than normal,” Morgan Baird opened via social media.
“His heart race has been down throughout the last day or so, compounding the issue. I returned to Michigan to be by her side as [we] wait for our son to arrive.”
“What is most important to me is the arrival of a safe and healthy baby boy, and a safe delivery for Victoria.”
“I would like to thank JD Motorsports and all of my sponsors as we navigate through this situation. Everyone has been very supportive throughout this process and the last minute changes.”
“Unfortunately, I will not be in Richmond to make my debut in the Xfinity Series this weekend, but I am working with the team/sponsors to announce another race at a later date.”
He concluded, “As we continue to wait for our son to arrive, please pray for Victoria and our baby boy, Brady.”
JD Motorsports comments
“As we prepare for this weekend’s race at Richmond Raceway, our thoughts, support, and prayers are with Morgen Baird, Victoria, and their growing family. While Morgen focuses on what truly matters most right now, we’re grateful to have Garrett Smithley stepping in to drive the #6 Chevrolet Camaro. Garrett, we appreciate your flexibility and readiness to support the team at this moment.”
“We also want to thank Long Drink, Rave Associates, Great Lakes Metal Finishing, LLC, Vanston/O’Brien, Jasper Electric, and Classic Turning for coming onboard and supporting our team.”
“Morgen, we want you to know that your fiancée’s and your baby’s health come first. Take all the time you need, and know that we’re here for you every step of the way. We eagerly await your return when the time is right”
The team added, “We will rally together this weekend, racing not just for victory on the track but also in support of Morgen and his family. We send our best wishes, positive thoughts, and strength to all.”
Update: Saturday Morning
“We are so happy to announce that Morgen Baird and Victoria welcomed baby Brody into the world at 11pm on March 29th. Mom and baby are doing great. Thank you all for your kind words and prayers.”
Links
JD Motorsports | Richmond Raceway | NASCAR
Related
Brandon Kinzer pulls himself from the seat following back issues
Scott Bloomquist is expected to undergo shoulder surgery this week; Pulls himself from seat
Cody Ware Back Injury – NASCAR Driver Pulls Himself from Lineup
Plane pulls Confederate flag over Talladega Superspeedway ahead of NASCAR race (VIDEO)