WATKINS GLEN, N.Y. - Nextel Cup veteran Sterling Marlin returned to his Tennessee home late Thursday to be with his ailing father, Coo Coo Marlin, and missed practice in his No. 40 Dodge on Friday.
Team officials said Marlin's status for the remainder of the weekend would be "day to day."
Busch Series driver David Stremme, who will take over the No. 40 next season, subbed for Marlin in Friday's first practice. Chip Ganassi Racing Grand American series driver Scott Pruett was also available if needed.
Should Marlin miss Sunday's race, Stremme will drive the No. 40. Pruett is already entered in a fourth Ganassi entry this weekend.
Coo Coo Marlin made 165 Cup starts in his career, with no wins, nine top-five and 51 top-10 finishes. His best points finish was 20th in the 1975 season.
*** Send thoughts and prayers to the Marlin Family ***