Sprint drivers gear up for Showdown

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CONCORD, N.C., May 13 (UPI) -- Drivers of all ages are fired up about Saturday's Sprint Cup Showdown at the Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, N.C.

NASCAR's annual all-star event ran in four 25-lap segments in 2008, but this season, in celebration of its silver anniversary, the race's format will be divided into four different segments.

For the first time since 2001, the All-Star race will feature a 10-lap shootout for its final segment.

"To be a part of the All-Star race and that group of drivers is always cool, and to do it at Charlotte is a lot of fun," Matt Kenseth said.

"We all grew up racing on a Saturday night or Friday night short track, whatever the case may be," said Kevin Harvick. "I guess it just brings out the best in all of us. It is a lot of fun and exciting to watch."

Kasey Kahne, who started last in the 24-car field last year, won the 2008 Sprint Cup Showdown after fans voted him into the lineup.