NASCAR at Kansas Speedway: Why You Should Care

By Jesse Holt | May 13, 2017

Oct 16, 2016; Kansas City, KS, USA; A general view of the Kansas Speedway prior to the Hollywood Casino 400. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports /

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DAYTONA BEACH, FL – FEBRUARY 17: A detail of the ‘ Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series’ logo during practice for the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series Advance Auto Parts Clash on February 17, 2017 at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida. (Photo by Jonathan Ferrey/Getty Images) /

Racing Like There’s No Tomorrow

NASCAR has gained a representation of making changes for the sake of making changes over the past decade. Look no further than NASCAR’S Chase format, currently on its fifth variation since being established in 2004.

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I’m prepared to say that NASCAR may have something in the newest iteration of their playoff system. It would take me a lot more words than you want to read to describe all the intricacies. Instead, I’ll just give you the highlights.

Each race is split into three segments with the winner of segment three officially winning the race. However, points are awarded to drivers running in the top 10 after Segments 1 and 2. The entire field is awarded points based upon their finishing position in Segment 3.

The 16-driver Chase system (now called Playoffs) beginning after race 26 will feature the same elimination format as prior seasons. However, drivers gain bonus points from each victory (segment or race) during the regular season. This will give them a points advantage at the start of each new round.

Simply put, racing throughout races is better now than it has been in years. Drivers are pushing the limit in order to gain all-too-precious points. I’ve long disliked the Chase format but I’m willing to say I’m slowly becoming a believer in the newest iteration.

Next: NASCAR: 15 drivers to watch at Go Bowling 400

These are just some of the story lines happening in the sport today. I would be remiss not to mention Jimmie Johnson’s quest for a Cup Series record eighth championship. On a local level, the late-career renaissances of Joplin, MO’s Jamie McMurray and Emporia’s KS’s Clint Bowyer are newsworthy too.

With so much happening in the sport, there’s no time like the present for a new fan to hop on board!