Since NASCAR is in the racing business, it's understandable that it might not feel that dealing with literacy is a priority. But these days, American education can use all the support it can get. Indications are the Urban Youth Racing School is filling an important role and is worthy of community support.

NASCAR support? Its decision to separate itself from the school is disappointing.

Lenox Industrial Tools 301

Loudon, N.H.

When: Sunday, 2 p.m.

TV/Radio: TNT/ESPN (950-AM), WNPV (1440-AM), WDSD (94.7-FM)

Race course: 1.058-mile oval

Race distance: 301 laps/318.46 miles

Last year's race winner: Kurt Busch

Last year's pole winner: Patrick Carpentier, 129.776 mph

Track qualifying record: Ryan Newman, 133.357 mph (September 2003)

Track facts: In winning last year's rain-shortened race, Kurt Busch led only the last 10 laps. Michael Waltrip was runner-up; J.J. Yeley was third . . . Greg Biffle won the September race at the track . . . Jeff Burton's four wins at New Hampshire top drivers all-time. Kurt Busch and Jeff Gordon are next with three W's each . . . Sunday's race is the first of 10 in the "Race to the Chase" . . . Tony Stewart and teammate Ryan Newman have combined for four wins (two each) at New Hampshire. Newman is the overall pole leader, with four.

2009 wins: Kyle Busch and Mark Martin, 3 each; Matt Kenseth and Jimmie Johnson, 2 each; Jeff Gordon, Kurt Busch, Brad Keselowski, David Reutimann, Tony Stewart, Kasey Kahne, 1 each.

SPRINT CUP STANDINGS

Driver, Previous Ranking, Points, Behind

1. Tony Stewart, 1, 2364, -

2. Jeff Gordon, 2, 2280, -84