How to Watch a NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Race

NASCAR knows what fans want to see: The Craftsman Truck Series is rough, wild and woolly. Be sure to check it out sometime.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Film - Regular Exposure And Polaroid
• Binoculars
• Internet Access
• Computers
• Camcorders
• Videocassettes
• Digital Cameras
• Internet Explorer
• Camera Lenses
• SLR Camera
• Polaroid Cameras
• Sports Illustrated Magazines
• Winston Cup Scene Magazines
• Stock Car Racing Magazines
• EHobbies - Diecast Collectibles - Craftsman Truck Series Models

Trucks and Drivers

1. Check those logos. Chevy, Ford and Dodge all race in the CTS.
2. Note that the trucks are modeled on a standard half-ton regular cab pickup truck.
3. Notice that the truck beds are covered to enhance aerodynamics.
4. Remember that CTS trucks are "purpose-built" race machines. Each is basically a tube-frame race car covered by sheet metal similar to a "stock" truck.
5. Understand that many consider the CTS a stepping-stone series. Drivers Stacy Compton and Mike Bliss have moved up to Winston Cup racing.
6. Note that the CTS has allowed drivers from other types of motor sports to get a foothold in NASCAR. Ron Fellows and Boris Said are successful sports car racers.
7. Check the owners. Many Winston Cup owners - and drivers - field CTS teams. Roush Racing, Hendrick Racing, Joe Nemechek and Ken Schrader are active owners.

The Race

8. Hold tight to your seat! Fans know CTS races are slam-bang affairs.
9. Check the schedule. The season begins in March and ends in November.
10. Watch for the CTS on old tracks: the Milwaukee Mile, Nazareth (Pennsylvania) and - new - Heartland Park at Topeka and the California Speedway.
11. Remember that most CTS races are on smaller ovals. There's lots of rubbin' and racin'.
12. Watch those pit stops. Positions can be lost or gained when a crew can change tires and add fuel faster than a competitor's crew.
13. Pay attention to what's happening during pit stops. If a hood goes up or someone crawls under a truck for an extended period, you can bet there's a serious mechanical problem.
14. Remember that every racer has a different strategy. Many younger drivers are eager to make a splash and race hard all the time. Other drivers want to finish well consistently and shoot for the championship.
15. Check your television schedule carefully. CTS races are not consistently held on the same day of the week.

Tips & Warnings

• Ear protectors are a good choice - especially for youngsters - around a racetrack.
• Be prepared for intense language if you listen on a scanner circuit. Big money's at stake and passions run high.