NASCAR copies IndyCar again

UPDATE Speedweeks at Daytona International Speedway not only opens up the 2011 NASCAR racing season, it also opens the garage gates to some very important fans. A revision in NASCAR's garage access policy allows an adult with approved access, either via annual credential (hard card) or a single event license (SEL), to bring his or her children in the NASCAR Sprint Cup, NASCAR Nationwide and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series garages on race days. The policy is in effect only during the "cold" pre-race period.

Each child will be issued a special credential. There is no minimum age requirement. Some "Need to Know" parameters for this new policy:

* Parents must complete a minor's release form prior to receiving a minor's credential.
* Releases and credentials will be available at the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series registration hauler or at the garage location.
* NASCAR Nationwide and NASCAR Camping World Truck Series children credentials will be available at those series' at-track registration locations.

Also updated for 2011: The dress code for all NASCAR pit and garage areas. Attire must remain appropriate for both a major sporting event and a family environment, but has been relaxed to include shorts, open-toed shoes, sleeveless blouses and skirts/dresses. NASCAR

02/14/11 Monkey see Monkey do. After IndyCar announced that they were going to allow children in the garage area this year comes word that NASCAR is become more kid-friendly this year by allowing children into the garage on race days.

The revision to the garage access policy will permit adults with approved credentials to bring their children into garages during the pre-race period on race days.

Each child will be issued a special credential. There is no minimum age requirement.

The policy announced Monday follows a relaxed dress code NASCAR implemented before the season. NASCAR will for the first time allow shorts, open-toed shoes, sleeveless blouses and skirts and dresses in the garage.