NASCAR announced a clarification to post-race procedures Sunday, reminding drivers that once the take the checkered flag they must complete the “cool down” lap. Event director David Hoots told the drivers assembled in Sunday’s pre-race meeting they were not allowed to turn into the exit of pit road and travel up the wrong direction toward pit road. Last week at Talladega, Ala., after taking the checkered flag, Tony Stewart made a sharp left turn into the exit of pit road, electing not to take the “cool down” lap. Instead, he turned into an approaching Terry Labonte and damaged both cars. He then traveled up pit road the wrong way at a high rate of speed to the entrance of the garage area.(ThatsRacin.com)(5-2-2004)
