Kahne is on pole for Goody’s 500 race

NASCAR Wire Service

MARTINSVILLE, Va.

Kasey Kahne proved once again that he’s a fast starter, but he’s still in dire need of a strong finish.

With a 97.128 mph (19.496 seconds) lap in Saturday’s time trials, Kahne edged Kevin Harvick (97.048 mph) for the top starting spot in today’s Goody’s Fast Relief 500 at Martinsville Speedway. Kahne claimed his second pole of the season, his first at Martinsville and the 24th of his career.

Four-time Martinsville winner Denny Hamlin (97.003 mph) will start third after running the exact same speed as Clint Bowyer. Hamlin won the tiebreaker for the position based on current owner points. Ryan Newman (96.988 mph) will start fifth.

In his first year in the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet, Kahne has posted an average starting position of 7.8, but his average finish has been a disappointing 26.6.

“It’s a tough track to qualify and a tough track to race — always has been one of my tougher ones over the years,” said Kahne. “I’m glad we can start up front.

“Hopefully, we’ll have a solid day [today]. That’s what we need to do. We’ve had great Fridays and Saturdays but just haven’t put together a Sunday yet.”

Trucks

Kevin Harvick crushed the rest of the field in Saturday’s Kroger 250, winning in seemingly effortless fashion by .953 seconds over Richard Childress Racing teammate Ty Dillon.

Harvick led 248 laps, a Craftsman Truck Series record.