Start time will make Daytona 500 end under the lights

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. - The latest scheduled start time in Daytona 500 history virtually guarantees NASCAR's biggest event will end underneath the lights on the historic 2.5-mile high-banked trioval.
The listed start time is 3:15 p.m. EST, and the actual green flag could drop about 10 minutes later, depending on weather and other prerace ceremonies.

According to the U.S. Naval Observatory's Web site, sunset is scheduled for 6:16 p.m. EST with twilight at 6:40 p.m. EST for Feb. 18. The race typically lasts between three and four hours, depending on cautions and red flags.
Daytona International Speedway President Robin Braig said he believed the later start - the race began about 45 minutes earlier last year - won't have a negative impact on the fan experience.
"We're looking forward to seeing the world center of racing under the lights with the sparks," Braig said Wednesday. "We think it will enhance the fans' experience. ... For the Super Bowl of racing to finish under the lights is an added benefit."
The move to the later start was requested by Fox, which will televise the race, Braig said.
"Our broadcast partners have increasingly become more important to NASCAR the sport and the individual tracks," Braig said. "They are trying to grow ratings on the West Coast."

Credit for story:BY BOB POCKRASS - ASSOCIATE EDITOR