NASCAR takes a Carousel ride at Sonoma

SONOMA, California: The Cup Series drivers had a rare break from their grinding schedule last week, and they’re returning to competition at a NASCAR stop that sometimes feels like a vacation.

Most drivers have spent the week enjoying wine tasting sessions and extravagant meals at the wineries and restaurants nestled in Northern California’s beautiful rolling hills. They’re sleeping in luxury hotels instead of their usual luxury motor homes. Across the paddock, everybody seems to be in a good mood.