DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Erik Jones and Joe Gibbs Racing topped the charts during the first official practice session of the season on Saturday at Daytona Int’l Speedway.
Jones, driving the No. 20 entry for JGR, circled Daytona Int’l Speedway in 45.055 seconds at 199.756 mph during the only practice for Sunday’s Busch Clash.
He was followed closely by a trio of fellow Joe Gibbs Racing drivers, with Denny Hamlin, Martin Truex Jr. and Kyle Busch going second through fourth fastest at the conclusion of the session Saturday afternoon.
The quartet of Joe Gibbs Racing drivers were the only competitors to top the 199 mph barrier. They’re also the only Toyota competitors in the Busch Clash.
Ryan Blaney was fifth fastest as Fords held positions five through 10 on the practice charts. Blaney was followed by Brad Keselowski, Joey Logano, Kevin Harvick, Clint Bowyer and Aric Almirola.
Chase Elliott was the fastest Chevrolet in 11th position.
Starting positions for Sunday’s Busch Clash will be decided via random draw later Saturday afternoon.