How Do You Plan NASCAR Race Strategy?
NASCAR teams hit the tracks with a race plan, but when the action gets hot and heavy, the plan changes as quickly as the first set of worn tires. “You can plan to pit on lap 50, but, if a caution flies on lap 40, you’re coming in,” says Johnny Benson, driver of the #10 Tyler Jet Motorsports Lycos Pontiac. Bring your best car to the track. Check your book for the right setup of shocks, springs, rear-end gear, and sway bar. Make sure your over-the-wall pit crew is sharp. Tune for horsepower and aerodynamics for a superspeedway. Tune for downforce and handling on the shorter tracks. Plan for tire wear and fuel mileage. Work hard for a good qualifying setup. Use Happy Hour to refine your race setup. Watch the weather and be ready to adapt as it changes during the race. Use your in-car radio to discuss changing conditions with your crew chief and spotter.
