IMPROVING NASCAR

6/3/09
Jocelyn Schwartz

NASCAR is constantly changing and evolving. These changes are intended to keep competition at its best. Whether it is trying to equal out the competition with the cars of tomorrow, or single file restarts with 20 to go, NASCAR looks to improve for the future.

I would like to propose a change that I hope that NASCAR will take into consideration. Only two things matter within the first 26 races:
1. You accumulate wins
2. You are in the top 12
Drivers just want to be in the top 12 when it comes down to it. They do not care if they are #1 or #12 or anywhere in between at race 26. Being number 1 in points for the season means nothing – and that is something that deserves more than just a pat on the back. Where is the drive and motivation to strive to be number 1 throughout the season? If the chase started tomorrow, how is it fair for Tony Stewart, currently sitting first in points to drop down several positiona, while Kyle Busch becomes the new leader with 3 wins despite being 6th in points in the regular season.

This is why I propose the following in addition to the current rules:

During the season cars receive five bonus points for leading a lap. I say, give five chase bonus points to the driver who leads each week in the point standings. It will reward consistent performance, motivate drivers to lead in the point standings, or try to stay on top accumulating as many points as they can week after week. It adds a new element of competition. Drivers will now fight for the win, and fight to be in first week in and week out.

Strong performance should be rewarded, and by doing so you stimulate more – and better competition. Drivers should not settle for just being in the top 12, they should want to win, and be first in their point standings.