In recent years, NASCAR has seen significant technological progress, with simulators becoming an essential tool for drivers to prepare for races. These advanced simulators help drivers familiarize themselves with track conditions and layouts, but Ryan Blaney, the 2023 Cup Series champion, recently discussed their potential downsides during the Team Blaney Podcast. Blaney emphasized that while simulators are useful, relying too heavily on them can lead to developing poor driving habits.
Limited Use of Simulators for Oval Tracks
Blaney revealed that he does not use simulators extensively for oval tracks, reserving their use mainly for road course races. For him, simulators serve to help adjust to specific features like bumps and braking points that are prominent on road courses. He explained how these machines provide a visual framework for understanding the course, but they are not a perfect substitute for real-world experience.
Risks of Fully Trusting Simulators
The driver warned that becoming overly dependent on simulator data might be detrimental. He stated,
I think you can learn some bad habits if you’re fully trusting a sim. I mean, it’s just real life to sim work in anything. There’s always going to be a little bit of a disconnect, at least nowadays. Maybe 10 years from now, it’s going to be perfect.
According to Blaney, simulators currently cannot replicate the exact nuances of real racing, and this gap can result in habits that do not translate well on actual tracks.
Technical Glitches Affect Simulation Experience
Blaney also mentioned that despite improvements over the past decade of simulator use, occasional glitches still occur. Sometimes the simulator’s visual feedback lags behind the car’s simulated movement, disrupting the driver’s coordination. When this happens, he prefers to stop the session immediately. He added,
It doesn’t happen very often, but yeah, I use a lot for gear reference. Brake points I feel like get to be fairly similar.
This cautious approach ensures that the simulator remains a helpful tool without misleading the driver.
Using Simulators to Compensate for Limited Track Time
The Ford Performance simulator is Blaney’s primary choice for road course preparation, especially given the restrictions on practice time during race weekends. However, when possible, he favors analyzing data rather than solely relying on simulated track laps. He explained in a previous interview that his preparation leans heavily on reviewing past data.
Individual Approaches to Race Preparation
Blaney acknowledged that every driver prepares differently, stating,
Everyone’s a little different. Some guys do SIM, others watch races, and look at data from last year. I’m more kind of a data guy than a SIM guy. But everyone’s a little different.
His preference for data analysis over simulator sessions underlines the variety of methods drivers use to gain a competitive edge.
Impact on Performance and Playoff Contention
Blaney’s balanced use of simulators and data study seems to be effective. His win at Nashville Superspeedway secured him a playoff spot this season, positioning him as a strong contender for the championship. His insights into simulator usage offer valuable guidance on integrating technology in driver training while recognizing its current limitations.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Has Ryan Blaney ever won Talladega?
A. In the Charlotte Roval race, Blaney secured eighth place, which moved him to the Round of 12. At Talladega, he won the fall race in an extremely close finish, beating Ryan Newman by just 0.007 seconds. This win allowed him to advance to the Round of 8, even though he had spun onto pit road earlier in the race.
Q. Has Ryan Blaney won at Talladega?
A. Blaney claimed victory in the Talladega fall race by narrowly beating Ryan Newman with a margin of 0.007 seconds. This win moved Blaney into the Round of 8, even after he spun early on the pit road.
