This week the NASCAR Cup Series heads to the track known as the “Magic Mile” for the Crayon 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
There are only seven races remaining (including this week’s) until the Playoffs begin. That means the pressure is building for many drivers to either get in the Playoffs or remain in above the cut line. I believe that is what made this race last year extra competitive. The first caution last year came on lap five and involved five cars.
Some say they call the track the “Magic Mile” because some very special things have happened at the track in NASCAR races. However, I feel like it would be more appropriate to say it takes some “magic” paired with your skill to find your way to Victory Lane at the track.
Here is the data for the track and this weekend’s race.
New Hampshire Motor Speedway Data:
Track Size: 1.058-mile
Banking/Turns: 2 to 7 degrees
Banking/Frontstretch & Backstretch: 1 degree (each)
Frontstretch & Backstretch Length: 1,500 feet (each)
Crayon 301 Race Data:
Season Race #: 20 of 36 (07-16-23)
Race Length: 301 laps / 318.46 miles
Stages 1 Length: 70 laps
Stages 2 Length: 115 laps
Final Stage Length: 116 laps
Eight of this weekend’s active drivers have wins in the Cup Series at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
| Kevin Harvick | 4 Wins | 2019, 2018, 2016, 2006 |
| Denny Hamlin | 3 Wins | 2017, 2012, 2007 |
| Kyle Busch | 3 Wins | 2017, 2015, 2006 |
| Ryan Newman | 3 Wins | 2011, 2005, 2002 |
| Brad Keselowski | 2 Wins | 2020, 2014 |
| Joey Logano | 2 Wins | 2014, 2009 |
| Christopher Bell | 1 Win | 2022 |
| Aric Almirola | 1 Win | 2021 |
Who will find that magic this weekend?
Will it be somebody already locked in the Playoffs that just wants to better their standings when the post-season starts?
Will it be somebody who is above the cut line, but not yet locked in?
Will it be somebody who is below the cut line and will shuffle the outlook for the Playoffs by winning to get in?
We will find out Sunday, July 16th when the green flag waives at 1:30 p.m. central time (2:30 p.m. eastern time) to start the Crayon 301 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway.
By: Buck Stevens
