Kyle Busch and his Joe Gibbs Racing team may have struggled this season in the Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series. But on the NASCAR XFINITY Series side?
They’re still as fast as ever.
Busch picked up his 60th career XFINITY pole Saturday morning. His Toyota Camry posted a lap of 193.564 mph, earning him the top spot for the Irish Hills 250.
Last week’s winner, Brad Keselowski, was second fastest after snapping Team Penske’s XFINITY drought at Pocono. Keselowski is seeking his first back-to-back victories in this division since the fall of 2010.
WOLKIN: Keselowski Leads XFINITY Practice
He was followed by JR Motorsports teammates Elliott Sadler and William Byron, the fastest of all series regulars. Denny Hamlin, Busch’s teammate at JGR rounded out the top five.
Tyler Reddick, back in his Chip Ganassi Racing ride was sixth, with rookies Cole Custer and Spencer Gallagher behind him. Michael Annett and Cup veteran Paul Menard rounded out the top-10 qualifiers.
Only 40 cars were entered so all made the race. This series is the only one of NASCAR’s top three divisions to have a full field this weekend.
Busch may be looking for a little redemption after this race last year. He appeared to have the event in hand but was tracked down and passed by eventual series champion Daniel Suarez on the last lap.
IRISH HILLS 250 STARTING LINEUP
The Irish Hills 250 goes green at 1:30 pm ET with live coverage on FOX Sports 1 and MRN Radio.
Frank Velat has been an avid follower of NASCAR and other motorsports for over 20 years. He brings a blend of passionate fan and objective author to his work. Frank offers unique perspectives that everyone can relate to, remembering the sport's past all the while embracing its future. Follow along with @FrankVelat on Twitter.