CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - A case of déjà vu. For a second straight year, rain impacted Chicago’s NASCAR street race.
The weather frustration at the Grant Park 165 began as soon as drivers started up their engines. Inclement weather forced the race to start late.
Within the first hour of racing, the showers returned, causing the track to become slick and several cars to crash. Multiple yellow caution flags were waved.
By 5 p.m., on lap 26, the rain intensified and NASCAR was forced to issue a red flag, bringing a full halt to the race.
Shane van Gisbergen, defending champion of the Grant Park 165 as well as winner of yesterday’s shorter race, the Loop 110, was one of drivers who crashed and knocked for the day.
The wet weather certainly cleared out the stands, with some seeking refuge in tents and others exiting the park altogether.
WBBM’s Terry Keshner encountered fans who, despite the soggy conditions, still enjoyed themselves.
NASCAR was once again in jeopardy of failing to complete a full street race in Chicago. Late this afternoon, they announced a hard stop time of 8:20 p.m. if the advertised race distance could not be met.
Rain on Chicago race weekend is not a new phenomenon. Last year, heavy rain pounded the city and street course, causing the Cup Series race to start 90 minutes late and be truncated.
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