Q - From a driver’s standpoint, how difficult is NHIS to maneuver?

“It’s very difficult. The reason is that the track has the widest corners and the drivers must spend a lot of time getting around, and it’s also very flat, which increases the difficulty. Bad handling characteristics of the car shows up at Loudon. It drives different than any other racetrack. It’s a track all its own.”

Q – Is NHIS a track where a Chase driver can make up ground if he has some tough luck early in the race?

“Yes, because New Hampshire is one of the only racetracks where a two-tire pit stop will work out well 90 percent of the time. You can put two right-side tires on and get back in the ballgame again. That is the only reason you can make up time. The cars don’t mind two tires at all and the track is very easy on the left side tires.”

Q - What should ESPN viewers watch for that is unique to NHIS?

“They’re going to be driving so fast on the straightaways and then come into the corners where there is a really flat entry. There is always a crash going into Turn 1 and Turn 3 and a lot of guys just flat lose it. I compare it to a big Martinsville, but at Loudon you’re running close to 150 mph.

[ESPN]

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