Bristol Motor Speedway officials announced today President and General Manager Jeff Byrd has taken a leave of absence to undergo tests and treatment for a recently-discovered medical matter. It will prevent him from involvement in the upcoming Food City 500 weekend.

Byrd, who also oversees operations at Bristol Dragway, recently went through a series of tests and his doctors are encouraged that the condition is limited to one area and is treatable.

“I fully intend to be back on the job as soon as the doctors say it is ok,” said Byrd. “I appreciate everyone’s thoughts and prayers and will miss being at the track for the Food City 500 weekend. I have said for years I have the best team in motorsports and things are in good hands.”

Byrd and his family have asked for prayers and privacy at this time.