To me Nascar is an exciting sport because it takes so much to get the cars set up to be competitive. I like all the techno stuff. There are so many variables to getting the car to run right. Every track is different and the set ups make or break the race performance. I like that there are so many things that they can do to get the handling better on the car during the race. It takes a car that has had all the right adjustments made to win a race.
A lot of people think that a race is just go fast and turn left. There is way more than that. Like I said the car has to be adjusted to run well on a particular track, then there are the changing track conditions. When the tracks heat up or cool down that also effects the way the car handles and grips. The crew chief has to anticipate what will make the car perform at it's best for the next 40-50 laps. He does this based on feedback, how his driver is telling him that the car is performing, anticipating how the track will be changing, knowledge, and a lot of instinct.
The drivers also have to stay focused. It must be hard to be all hot and frustrated and trying to hold a line that will give you the best lap times, while having to watch out for the other 42 cars on the track and trying to pass as many as you can!
A drivers attitude has a big part to play with the outcome of the race. Driving talent and attitude have to work hand in hand for a driver to get the most out of his car. We have all seen a driver that just sorta gives up during a race and the driver who kinda looses his cool and makes a silly move, that can take himself out and others too, intentional and unintentional!
Then there is the pit crew, the true unsung heroes of the race. We are all aware that many times, the race can be won or lost in the pits. The pit crew has to work as a well oiled machine. With pit stops now getting into the 12 second time frame, the whole team has to work in very coordinated moves. Just one wrong move could mean the lose of a lot of positions on the track, where as a good pit stop can give you even more potential for a better position and a better chance at a win. When done right, a pit stop can be a thing of beauty to me.
I have never been to a live race,
To hear and see and smell it all. I am looking forward to that very much. I love the way that lvhrvck29 and degafan have described it! I know that once I do experience it all that it will take my addiction to Nascar to a whole new level!
All of this is the reason why I love this sport, Nascar! So many variables and so much talent on so many levels all coming together to make one great race.!
