There are many factors that determine a win or even a higher finishing position in a NASCAR race. While driver skill, car, and strategy all play a huge role, there is also a bonus that significantly increases the odds of winning a race. This is none other than a driver’s qualifying position.
The battle for securing a better qualifying spot has never been more relevant than now, especially with the passing struggles of NASCAR’s NextGen car. Besides, a higher qualifying spot gives drivers a chance to dominate the contest from the very beginning.
On his recent podcast, Denny Hamlin spoke about Kyle Larson’s recent All-Star run and how his starting position affected his finishing numbers.
Denny Hamlin’s Take on Kyle Larson’s Day Out in North Wilkesboro
Competing in more than just the NASCAR Cup Series, Larson probably has the busiest schedule this year of any professional driver. Attempting ‘The Double’ for the second year in a row, Larson had a tough time with the scheduling overlaps of both tournaments.
Following this, his team, Hendrick Motorsports, announced his absence from the heat races ahead of the North Wilkesboro All-Star Race. This led to the No. 5 driver starting the race all the way at the back in the 19th spot.
Having won the pole position at Kansas in a close contest over RFK Racing’s Chris Buescher, Larson had an early advantage in the race. After leading 221 laps, Larson arrived in the victory lane in his typical dominant style.
Although Larson’s starting spots have helped him with an initial advantage, they have not always dictated the end result for him. For instance, in his first win of the season at Homestead-Miami, Larson won the contest after starting in the 14th position.
However, in his most recent All-Star outing, he was unable to make he most of the cards he was dealt. Despite climbing the ladder and effectively moving up 18 spots to lead five laps, a late wreck cost Larson his position. Although he only took 10 passes, his two-tire pit stop gave him an advantage. In the end, the No. 5 driver only ran 247 of the 250 laps and finished in the 21st position.
On his podcast, ‘Actions Detrimental’, Hamlin spoke about Larson’s early track struggle. He stated:
“He was always about four cars in front of me the entire time. Seemed to struggle a little bit, but then their big mark was when they stayed out and got the track position, and then he was able to make a really good time on the top.”
The No. 11 driver further continued, “He ultimately busted his a** up in turns one and two, trying to push the groove up, but I don’t know that anyone really made it from the back to the front.”
Hamlin further mentioned that while it is tough to directly move to the front from a position like Larson’s, drivers often try to move within the top 5.
“That’s a very key spot, in this race, being in that four to seven range where you can be the front of whatever that alternate strategy is.”
As for Hamlin, he finished the race in the 12th position after starting in the 20th spot.