The best thing about Grand Prix Americas is the idea of downtown Miami turning into a stoplight- and speed-limit-free supersonic racetrack for 3 days. Plus, it's free to stand around the track, unless you're a serious race fan and enter the infield ($45) or sit in the grandstands ($75 to $125). Of course if you happen to work downtown, you may be cursing the added congestion right about now. But with racing greats in town and revving up their engines, the event is worth all the trouble. The Grand Prix Americas is actually 3 races over 2 days: The American Le Mans series race begins at 4:00 p.m. today; the CART Toyota Atlantic Race at 10:30 a.m. and the CART Champ Car Race at 1:00 p.m. tomorrow. But you can get your fill of really fast, really loud cars all day Friday by checking out practice and qualifying sessions that take place all afternoon. And the great thing about CART is the emphasis on man versus machine. With less-tweaked cars, drivers have to rely more on their own skill behind the wheel, as the overall series includes many types of tracks. Call 305-533-1033. -- By John Anderson
THUR 9/25
Showdown
Marlins face wild-card foes
With only a single game separating the fish and the Phillies at press time, this week's 3-game series against Philadelphia promises to be blood and guts pelota of a fanatic's dreams. There are less than five regular season games left, and playoff hopes are real with a wild-card berth within reach. This is the moment that separates the merely hopeful fans from the devout. Just try to forget the recent 14-0 trouncing inflicted by the Phils. Tonight's game, closing out the series, is not to be missed. The drama starts at 7:05 at Pro Player Stadium, 2269 NW 199th St., Miami. Tickets range from $3 to $60. Call 305-623-6100. -- By Juan Carlos Rodriguez
