BUSCH: Almirola Wins Daytona Pole

[Joe_Knesek]

(AP) - Aric Almirola outran Jason Leffler on Friday to grab his second NASCAR Busch Series pole in his 10th attempt - and this time he'll race, too.

The 22-year-old Hispanic driver won his first pole last June in Milwaukee, sitting in for Nextel Cup star Denny Hamlin, who was qualifying the same day in Sonoma, Calif.

Hamlin flew back in time to run the Wisconsin race, and Almirola, a graduate of the diversity program started in 2003 by Joe Gibbs Racing and late football star Reggie White, had to watch from pit road.

When team president J.D. Gibbs came up to congratulate Almirola on Friday, the youngster had one question: "I get to drive this time, right boss?"'

 

[Scott Norris]

Was just watching them interview Aric on Speed. I bet Ralph and Aric are both Excited about this! Hope he races Smart since at Daytona it seems that the Leader on the last lap rarely wins anymore.

Congrats to Aric and Daddy Ralph!

 

[Ray Sametz]

What props he running. :lol: :lol: :lol: Good luck Aric stay safe. Ray B) B)