Video: NASCAR pits stops are a proper adrenaline rush
Pitstops in motorsport are among the most intense and crucial parts of a race. In such a small amount of time, there is so much that can go wrong. The slightest mistake can see a driver’s race ended in an instant, which is what makes the work of the pit crews so unbelievably impressive.
Today’s visual treat is not particularly long, but it’s an incredible insight into the life of a wheel gun operator in the NASCAR Xfinity series. We sit quietly and patiently on the pit wall for what feels like an eternity, waiting for our car to make its way down the pit lane (or should we say pit road?). The anticipation is too much, we need a lie down before the car’s even arrived.
After 40 seconds or so of intense build-up, the number 51 steams into the pit box, and the choreography of our crew is more impressive than any dance we’ve ever seen. Quite how this individual can be that accurate with the wheel gun, at such break-neck speed, is beyond us. Five wheel nuts come off and five go back on in the space of six seconds. And then we have to run around to the other side and do it all again.
With zero mistakes and incredible efficiency, the car is stationary for fewer than 20 seconds. If we’re honest we were expecting a few more high fives to be thrown, but clearly, this level of perfection is standard procedure. Very impressive. We also think this kind of pitstop should be carried over to F1. Two-second stops are good, but this is far more exciting to watch.
Welcome to Goodwood Elevenses, a mid-morning helping of motoring-related amusement to help break up your day. Watch the previous video: Screaming V8 GP cars around Misano
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