As CART "launches into its third decade this weekend
riding a low tide of TV ratings," the racing series is on
the "lookout" for viewers, according to Tim May of the
COLUMBUS DISPATCH, who wrote that a "controversial approach
could help" CART's TV ratings. CART VP/Broadcast Services
Keith Allo says that "controversy ... makes the sport go
round," and may be looking for "more conflict between CART
drivers and owners." Allo: "I think NASCAR has found that
it can be politically correct for its sponsors, but also
that the good guy-bad guy thing works." Allo is also
"pushing for more use of in-car cameras," and "more
eavesdropping on the drivers" in radio communications with
pit crews and announcers (COLUMBUS DISPATCH, 3/17). CART
takes out a full-page ad in USA TODAY promoting the start of
its season Sunday with the Grand Prix of Miami on ABC.
A NEW DRIVER IN THE DRIVER'S SEAT: Arie Luyendyk will
call the action for FSN's '99 IRL coverage with analyst Jack
Arute and play-by-play announcer Dave Calabro. The IRL's
first race airs on Sunday, March 28 (Fox Sports Net).
