Reflections on Evolving Race Formats

By Allen Pitts (Looking Through Foggy Goggles)

Recent Changes in Race Event Structure

For the past few weeks, I’ve been reflecting on a noticeable shift in how several tracks are organizing their events. More tracks are starting to hold shows where they hot lap, qualify, and then proceed directly to the feature races, skipping preliminary events altogether. While I firmly believe that promoters must ensure their shows run no longer than two and a half to three hours—much like other entertainment such as sports, concerts, or movies—this condensed format seems designed to attract casual spectators rather than just die-hard race fans. The key is to offer an engaging show within a reasonable timeframe, avoiding late-night finishes that can deter attendance.

Mixed Feelings About the New Format

Despite understanding the rationale behind these changes, I’m not entirely sure I prefer this approach. Heat races are valuable to spectators, providing an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the cars and observe the driving lines. From the teams’ perspective, fewer laps mean reduced expenses: less tire wear, lower fuel consumption,
and minimized risk of damaging the car in races with little or no payout. However, the limited track time makes it difficult for teams to properly set up their cars, as only a few hot laps may not be sufficient.

Benefits for Tracks

For the tracks themselves, this streamlined format has clear advantages. Running fewer laps helps preserve the track’s condition, reducing the need for rewatering or addressing ruts and other issues before the feature events. Even in asphalt racing, less preliminary activity means major oil downs and cleanup are minimized before the main
event.

Personal Experiences with Feature-Only Shows

Recently, I considered visiting Toledo to watch the CRA show but found they were only running features. I saw another track announce a similar feature-only format. Years ago, I attended Bowman Gray, arriving early to watch qualifying, only to discover after navigating parking and ticket lines that the show consisted solely of feature
races—along with a couple of fights.

Seeking Opinions on Race Formats

This leads me to ask: What is your preference? Do you enjoy watching dashes and heat races? If you’re of an older generation, perhaps you’d appreciate seeing a “crack the whip” or Australian pursuit. Or maybe you attend primarily for the features and prefer not to sit through a host of preliminary events. The condensed schedule could make for a quicker show and allow time to head back into the pits, meet the drivers, and share an adult beverage or two.