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USRRC: Lights on for '99 Rolex 24 at Daytona

12 January 1999

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.-The 37th annual Rolex 24 At Daytona, January 30-31, will utilize Daytona International Speedways new lighting system in 1999, marking the first time North Americas premier endurance event will be conducted under night lights.

Daytona International Speedway will turn on 20 percent of the perimeter lighting just before dusk during the race, continuing at the 20 percent level throughout the night.

Before choosing to use the light system, Daytona International Speedway and USRRC officials observed three separate tests and consulted with participating drivers and grandstand observers.

"After viewing the tests were positive that using the lighting system for the Rolex 24 At Daytona will greatly enhance our spectators enjoyment of the race, improve the quality of racing during the night hours and allow the USRRCs officials to operate more effectively," said John Graham, President, Daytona International Speedway.

"We welcome this bright addition to Daytona International Raceway and the Rolex 24 At Daytona," said Alan Wilson, Executive Director, USRRC. "The new lights are a major advance for endurance sports car racing, enhancing the Rolex 24 experience for everyone involved."

"Why not use the lights and bring sports car racing out of the dark . . . ages?," asked Doug Fehan, Program Manager, General Motors Motorsports C5R Corvette. "Especially this lighting system, which is absolutely state-of-the-art."

With a strong and probable record field of sports cars, the 1999 Rolex 24 At Daytona begins at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, January 30.