A Driver's Fuel

CASTRONEVES HAS concocted a homemade brew that has become an indispensable part of his prerace routine. He calls it the Tiger and downs one a couple of hours before the green flag drops. He says it fills his tank without weighing him down. "When I have steak or pasta, it gives my stomach a weird sensation--and I feel like I want to take a nap," he says. "I can't go without eating. I have to make sure I have something before I go out and race."

The Tiger: one cup milk; one banana; one cup Frosted Flakes; one cup ice (optional)

Combine milk, cereal, ice and banana in blender and combine for about 30 seconds or until desired smoothness. For a thicker mix, add more banana.

Says Castroneves: "The banana is good for retaining water, and the sugar brings me up. It's going to look like oatmeal when it's done, but it tastes much better."