Denny Hamlin Grabs First Bud Pole of Career at Phoenix

AVONDALE, Az. (Saturday, November 12, 2005) In just his sixth race Denny Hamlin grabbed the first Bud Pole of his career in qualifying for the Checker Auto Parts 500 at Phoenix International Raceway.

Driving the No. 11 FedEx Express Chevrolet Monte Carlo around the 1-mile track, Hamlin posted a time of 26.831 seconds which put him ahead of Jimmie Johnson, Carl Edwards and Greg Biffle. Teammate Bobby Labonte qualified 5th with a fast lap of 27.020.

"It's happened so fast for me that it's really been tough to sink it all in," said Hamlin. "I've been given great cars every week by Mike (Ford, Crew Chief). You know, I feel like any driver could do what I'm doing right now with the equipment I'm being put in. It's just been really good and hopefully we'll ride this wave into next year and hopefully have a shot to get into the Chase."

Earlier in the day Hamlin qualified the No. 20 Rockwell Automation Chevy in second for the Arizona 200 Busch Series race.

NASCAR Nextel Cup points leader Tony Stewart qualified ninth with a time of 27.115 seconds in his No. 20 Home Depot Monte Carlo.

Sunday's Checker Auto Parts 500 takes the green flag at 3:40pm and can be seen on your NBC affiliate.

...More to Come