Why is an auto racer starting in the front of the pack said
to be in the pole position?
In circuit motorsport, a driver has pole position when he
starts a race at the front of the grid. The term comes from the
horse racing term where the number one starter starts on the inside
next to the inside pole. The term made its way, along with several
other customs, to auto racing. Grid position is usually determined
by a separate qualifying session where drivers try to set the
fastest lap, or based on their position in the previous race.
Different motorsport series use different formats for determining
which driver has the opportunity to start from pole position.
• Formula 1-- 1996 until 2003: Drivers were permitted up to twelve
laps to record a fastest lap in a one hour session on Saturday.
• Formula 1--2003, 2004, and 2005 from May 28 (PRESENT) Pole
position is determined by the best time on a single lap run on
Saturday, with race fuel.
• Formula 1-- 2005, March 6 - May 22: Pole position was determined
by the aggregate times from two qualifying sessions. One on
Saturday with minimal fuel and a second on Sunday morning with race
fuel.
• NASCAR Current: Pole position is determined by a 2 lap trial
(one lap on the road courses). The fastest lap is counted towards
the pole. Before 2000, NASCAR had a 2 day qualifying format, but
then they went to a single engine rule.
• Indianapolis 500 Current: Pole position is determined on the
first day of the 4 days of qualifying. 4 laps are run by each car.
The average speed is what determines the positions, including
pole.
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terrain is rated a five because special equipment will be needed.
However, never fear, the special equipment will be found nearby.
Bring your own pen.