Sears Point New Layout Adds Laps

Faster track means more laps at Sears Point SONOMA, Calif. (March 10, 1998) - NASCAR fans will get more for their money at the Save Mart/Kragen 350 this June, thanks to a new road course configuration at Sears Point Raceway that will increase the race length to 111 laps from what was previously a 74-lap contest.

The road course is being transformed into a faster, more horsepower-friendly, 1.95-mile circuit, allowing track officials to expand the NASCAR Winston cup race to 350 kilometers. The race has been 300 kilometers since its inception in 1989.

A new high-speed straightaway dubbed "The Chute," will connect existing turns four and seven for the raceway's NASCAR events. The chute will be complete prior to the NASCAR Winston cup event on June 28.

"The changes to the road course are being made with both our NASCAR fans and competitors in mind," said Sears Point President Steve Page. "The redesign will create a faster, more exciting racing experience allowing fans to witness 40 percent more laps. The changes will create more passing opportunities, closer competition, better views and an unparalleled road racing environment." Source: NASCAR Online