Do NASCAR Drivers Drink During Race?

Driving a NASCAR racecar is an extremely demanding job. Everyone can purchase a generic Toyota Camry and drive it down the avenue but not everyone will realise how difficult it is to be a driver like Denny Hamlin, strapped to the seat of a modified Camry that runs close to 200 mph on high-banked ovals for several hours straight. No wonder the drivers look all worked up and frenzied after a race is over.

There is not a single part of the driver's body other than their eyes that remains exposed and free to breathe. The firesuit, the HANS device, the helmet, the gloves, the boots; the list of elements that fall under the banner of “driving gear” is as incessant as the exhaustion that comes with driving. Needless to say, the drivers need to keep themselves hydrated all the time. But how so during a race?

Also Read : Do NASCAR drivers have side mirrors?

How do Drivers drink during a race?

The drivers do drink water before the race begins. But drinking too much water before the race might lead to obvious issues, which any driver would want to avoid. As a backup, sometimes the drivers carry sodium tablets with them to maintain the salt levels in their bodies during the race. But even then, they could get thirsty. A Joe Gibbs Racing video posted a few months ago, disclosed how drivers can drink water while wearing their helmets.

First, the driver radios to his crew chief that he or she needs to take a sip. The pit crew prepares a bottle of water that has a long straw attached to its mouth. The next time the driver pits, a member of the crew will put the bottle in the cup holder adjacent to the driver's seat. The driver can then enjoy his drink.

But what happens if the driver is hungry? Most drivers are advised to consume small portions of protein-rich food throughout the year to keep their metabolism up and running. The same goes for the race day. Surely, a spicy bowl of chilli isn't a viable meal option, as there is practically no way to dismount the car and use the lavatory while the race is on.

But it's not uncommon for drivers to fall prey to the clutches of hunger while driving. Luckily, the video explained that scenario too. In cases like these, the pit crew will get a small snack like a sandwich or a granola bar, open the wrapper, and hand it to the driver through the window net.