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Pennzoil Dodge Racing Preview: Raines to Sears Point

1 October 1997


Sears Point Offers Big Challenge for Raines 


   Racing on road courses is not new to Pennzoil's Tony Raines.  He 
has done it before, both as an American Speed Association (ASA) 
competitor, and twice earlier this year as a NASCAR Craftsman Truck 
Series rookie.  But having experience and having a lot of experience 
are two different things, which is something Raines recognizes as he 
heads to Sears Point Raceway for the first time in his career to 
compete in Sunday's Kragen/Exide 151.


Raines on...

...the challenge of Sears Point:

   "Going to a road course that I've never been to is one of the 
harder things about being a rookie.  I think it takes a trip or two 
for you to really start to pick apart the track, find out where you're 
weak and then start improving those areas.  Going there the first 
time, I'll be a little overwhelmed just trying to get the layout of 
the track and finding where to put the Pennzoil Dodge in each corner.  
Then, I'll go out and run a race, and when it's over, I'll be able to 
analyze what I did and say, `I was really good in turn one or I need 
to improve in turn two.'"  

   "It's more difficult to go to a road course for the first time than 
it is an oval for the first time because there is just more to learn.  
Along with finding the right shift points, you also have to figure out 
the right line for each spot on the track.  It just takes time.  After 
a race or two out there, I think I'll be as good as anybody -- at 
least that's the plan."


...the demands of a road course:

   "It's kind of fun for the driver because you get to do your thing.  
But, it's tough for the crew.  It's a lot of work and is really hard 
on equipment.  But, it's something you need to do.  If you can become 
a decent road racer, you will be a better overall driver."


...the importance of concentration on a road course:

   "You have to concentrate all the time.  If you screw up, you'll run 
off the race track and that is generally considered to be a big 
disadvantage."


For More Information
Contact: Al Larsen
Cohn & Wolfe
(404) 880-5267
al_larsen@cohnwolfe.com