Friday, February 16, 2001: Page D9

Daytona 500, Daytona international Speedway (Sunday):
New aerodynamic rules have resulted in the slowest qualifying speed (183.565 mph) since 1967 for NASCAR's biggest race, but the competition should be far better than last year, with more passing and a closer field.

Food City 500, Bristol Motor Speedway (March 25):
Tempers invariably flare at this high-banked, .533-mile track, billed as the "world's fastest half-mile," where crowds of 135,000 jam the stands to watch some old-style fender-rubbing and paint-swapping.

Chicago 500, Chicagoland Speedway (July 15):
NASCAR's expansion into major markets continues with the inaugural race at this new 1.5-mile tri-oval. The weekend consists of a twin bill of Winston Cup and Busch Grand National racing.

Brickyard 400, Indianapolis Motor Speedway (Aug. 5):
There's not a lot of passing, and the cars disappear behind the infield tree line for half of the race at the 2.5-mile oval. But the track's grand history lends undeniable cachet to the event.

Kansas City 500, Kansas Speedway (Sept. 30):
Winston Cup series expands to the heartland with its inaugural race at Kansas Speedway, yet another 1.5-mile tri-oval, but with slightly lower banking, which should reduce speed a bit.