Michael Manis

Auto-Racing Basics for New Fans

Michael Manis

Attending an auto-racing event can be highly exciting, given the fast speeds, loud noises, and enthusiastic crowds. New fans of auto racing tend to enjoy the events more when they have a basic understanding of what the drivers do. Here is a beginner’s guide to basic techniques:

—Drafting. This practice involves driving very close behind another car. Because of the physics involved, it allows both cars to drive faster than either could alone. With extensive draft lines, the speed gains grow exponentially; this accounts for the clusters and lines of cars in many long-track races.

Michael Manis

—Trading paint. Purposely nudging another car during an auto race is a strategy some drivers use to give themselves enough room to pass. The friction created from the contact causes the hit car to slow, potentially creating a passing channel.

—Bump drafting. This practice combines the first two and is considered dangerous and controversial. Bumping a driver from behind can provide a passing lane, but it may also cause the first driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Michael Manis

About Michael Manis:

Michael Manis currently serves as President of Coastal Group Holdings, a New York-based financial firm. In his leisure time, Mr. Manis enjoys auto racing and considers himself an exotic car enthusiast.