Hamlin leads crash-filled final Sprint Cup practice
DARLINGTON, S.C. – Three more drivers shifted to backup cars in a crash-heavy final NASCAR Sprint Cup practice at Darlington Raceway on Friday afternoon.
While Joe Gibbs Racing’s Denny Hamlin led the practice in speed, three drivers found themselves involved in crashes severe enough to lead to backup cars in the session.
Hamlin topped the field with a lap of 179.651 mph. JGR teammate Kyle Busch was second-fastest with a lap of 179.174. Hendrick Motorsports’ Dale Earnhardt Jr., Gillett Evernham Motorsports’ Kasey Kahne and Hendrick’s Jeff Gordon rounded out the top five.
Penske Racing’s Ryan Newman, Richard Childress Racing's Jeff Burton, Hendrick’s Casey Mears, Dale Earnhardt Inc.’s Martin Truex Jr. and Penske’s Kurt Busch followed.
Jimmie Johnson, who was already in a backup after crashing his Hendrick Motorsports’ entry during the opening practice, spun off Turn 4 and hit the wall. His team is working to repair that car.
Chip Ganassi Racing’s Reed Sorenson, Robby Gordon Motorsports’ Robby Gordon and DEI’s Paul Menard also crashed in separate incidents and will also race in backup cars in Saturday night’s Dodge Challenger 500.
