DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Thousands of NASCAR fans braved the almost-freezing temperatures at the Daytona International Speedway Thursday night as the Budweiser Duel 60-lap races kicked off.
Track officials didn’t make many changes due to the cold weather.
Officials recommended that fans dress warmer, but the drivers and the race cars are made to go 200 mph in pretty much any temperature, which is why no major changes are in effect.
“Well, being that we’re from Canada, it’s warmer for us, so we’re not complaining,” said fan Debbie Kos.
“Twenty-four hours ago, we left temperatures that were minus 22 Celsius, which is equivalent to 3 degrees Fahrenheit,” said fan Tom Meyers.
Track: Current Temperatures
Track: Hour-By-Hour
Not everyone was fine with it.
With some of the coldest air of the season come hats, coats, gloves and scarves.
Some people sported their NASCAR gear over the heavier stuff.
“For here, this is a little weird,” said Kenneth Graham, who came from Portland, Oregon, to see the race.
Some fans built a bonfire to keep warm outside the stands.
The drivers are always wrapped head-to-toe in protective gear, so the cold air might actually feel good for them, officials said.
The only minor change to the cars is that some teams may elect to increase their tire pressure, at least until the tires warm up.
Teammates Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Jimmie Johnson each ended up in victory lane as winners of this year's Budweiser Duels.
WFTV
