MOTOR SPORTS ROUNDUP News and notes

NASCAR outraged: NASCAR said it was "outrageous" that "Dateline NBC" targeted one of its race tracks last weekend for a possible segment on anti-Muslim sentiment in the United States. NASCAR said NBC confirmed it was sending Muslim-looking men to a race, along with a camera crew to film fans' reactions. The NBC crew was "apparently on site in Martinsville, Va., walked around and no one bothered them," NASCAR spokesman Ramsey Poston said. "It is outrageous that a news organization of NBC's stature would stoop to the level of going out to create news instead of reporting news." NASCAR is in the final year of a broadcasting agreement with NBC Sports.
Drivers still learning at Indy: Helio Castroneves is still learning, even at Indianapolis. The two-time Indianapolis 500 winner and IndyCar series leader after two races this season was among 17 drivers on the track Wednesday for the only open testing at the speedway before the start of practice in May. "Every time you're out there at this place, you're always learning," Castroneves said. "Obviously, we want to be on top of the charts, but right now you need to be smart, take advantage of this day and put it in your pocket." Scott Dixon, the 2003 IRL champion, had a top lap of more than 226 mph, while Castroneves and his Penske teammate, Sam Hornish Jr., were consistently among the fastest during six-plus hours of testing. It was the first time every car on the track was powered by Honda, now the sole engine supplier for the Indy Racing League.
Bowyer crew member suspended: Clint Almquist, a mechanic on rookie Clint Bowyer's team, was suspended by NASCAR Wednesday for a rules violation at Martinsville Speedway. NASCAR said Almquist did not place racing fuel in the designated collection area on one occasion during Sunday's event. Almquist, who was placed on probation until June 7, won't be allowed to accompany the team this weekend to Texas Motor Speedway. Crew chief Gil Martin was fined $2,500 because NASCAR said he is responsible for Almquist's actions.
Associated Press
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