Denny Hamlin becomes oldest pole winner at Martinsville Speedway

Denny Hamlin made NASCAR history by becoming the oldest driver to win a pole position at Martinsville Speedway, according to WTVR CBS 6. Hamlin, who will turn 46 soon, secured his sixth pole position this season with a lap speed of 98.492 mph on the 0.526-mile track, surpassing the previous record held since 1987.

Hamlin's achievement is notable as he is five months older than the previous oldest pole sitter, Morgan Shepherd. This marks Hamlin's career-best number of poles in a single season, demonstrating his continued competitiveness in the sport.

Kyle Larson qualified third at Martinsville with a speed of 98.114 mph. Larson currently leads the NASCAR Chase standings by 73 points over Hamlin, with two races remaining in the season, including the upcoming race at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Hamlin has a strong record at Martinsville, with five of his six series wins at the track coming from the pole position. He expressed his goal to stay ahead of Larson in the standings by gaining points in the remaining races.

The Martinsville race is significant for local Richmond fans as Hamlin, a driver with ties to the area, continues to make history and compete at a high level in NASCAR's Chase for the championship.