Although it is theoretically possible for individual laps times to be normally distributed, it is highly unlikely (at least for one individual). A normal distribution requires the mean (average) and the median (the middle-most value) to be close or identical. This means that 50% of your laps are above and 50% are below your median.
The more likely statistical representation for individual lap times is a skewed distribution. Skewness occurs when there is some type of boundary (like the fastest lap) where data congregates towards that boundary value but not past it.
Great topic Bob! What is the date of the Magic City Classic this year? I'm not sure if business travel will allow me to sneak that one in again, but I sure enjoyed the last time I was up there...if it wasn't for Blackstock out-qualifying me! (Like THAT was a surprise!)
Cheers,
John