It was a new track record for Cole Custer as the JR Motorsports driver took the pole position for Sunday’s race at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park.
Custer’s No. 00 Haas Automation Chevrolet was quickest in qualifying with a fast lap of 1:19.175. Custer’s lap bested Alex Tagliani’s previous track record set in 2015 of 1:20.084.
“I could’ve done better through turn 3, and through the esses, but it was definitely a good lap,” Custer said. “The guys did a great job with the truck, and I just had to do my job and not mess up too big. I think we’ll have a good truck for the race.”
Brad Keselowski Racing part-time driver Austin Cindric qualified second in the No. 2 PIRTEK F-150. Cindric, who comes from a road course racing background, was fourth fastest in both first and final practice. Cindric and BKR teammate Daniel Hemric were both fast throughout the day, and able to lean on each other for what they felt in their trucks.
“We (Cindric and Hemric) started out in a similar place,” Cindric told OnPitRoad.com after qualifying. “We brought a brand new truck to the race, so we had a bit more work than I honestly anticipated to start the day, so we’ve actually come quite a long way from where we were at the start of the day.
“I’m quite happy with the progress I’ve been able to do with my crew chief Brian Wilson,” he said. “It’s our first race weekend as well. Getting to know him short term, and understanding what he needs from me, and what I need from him, and building that relationship. Obviously so far it’s worked well.”
Cindric’s teammate Hemric qualified third followed by Kaz Grala and championship points leader William Byron.
Brett Moffitt will start sixth followed by Alberta’s Cameron Hayley, Tyler Reddick, Spencer Gallagher and Ben Rhodes.
NASCAR Next member Gary Klutt will start 15th in his series debut for Kyle Busch Motorsports.
