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[Johnny D]

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SONOMA -- Officials at the raceway in Sonoma are hoping modifications to its road course will bring about greater passing opportunities for IndyCar drivers -- and a more compelling race for fans -- when the open-wheel series returns to the track Aug. 24-26 with the Indy Grand Prix of Sonoma.


After working with legendary driver Mario Andretti, members of Team Penske -- including drivers Will Power and Ryan Briscoe -- and IndyCar officials, the raceway announced Tuesday the entrance to hairpin Turn 11 will be extended 200 feet, the exit to Turn 9 will be widened 10 feet to 50 feet, and Turn 7 will become a hairpin instead of a wider right turn.
Since IndyCar first came to Sonoma in 2005, the narrow turns on the track have made for limited passing opportunities for drivers and put a greater emphasis on qualifying and fuel strategy.
There were no lead changes in the 75-lap race in 2009 and just two in 2010. There were five last year when Power won by 3.24 seconds, but that was mainly due to Briscoe staying out on the track when Power made a pit stop.
Officials also announced the length of the IndyCar Series race will increase from 75 to 85 laps. One lap will be 2.31 miles. It was formerly 2.303 miles.
Penske has won three of the last four races in Sonoma, with Power winning the last two and Helio Castroneves winning in 2008.