Chase Elliott Secures Pole Position for the 2025 Cook Out Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium
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The NASCAR Cup Series roared back to life this weekend as the Cook out Clash qualifying rounds unfolded at Bowman Gray Stadium. The event, a thrilling precursor to Sunday’s 200-lap race, saw Chase Elliott clinch pole position after a dominant performance in Heat 1.
Elliott, the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion, showcased his skill by clocking the fastest lap during the timed practice session and later securing victory in Heat 1. “It was a physical start, but we managed to come out on top,” Elliott shared on social media, reflecting on his impressive day.
Defending Cook Out Clash winner Denny Hamlin will start Sunday’s race in the No. 3 spot after winning Heat 3. Simultaneously occurring, Chris Buescher earned the No. 2 position by triumphing in Heat 2, and Tyler Reddick rounded out the top four with a win in Heat 4.
Key Highlights from Qualifying
The 25-lap heat races were marked by intense competition and strategic maneuvers. Notably, Ryan Preece secured his spot in Sunday’s lineup despite starting Heat 4 in the No. 6 position. Preece battled fiercely with John Hunter Nemechek before making an aggressive move to claim third place.
Heat 4 also saw some drama as AJ Allmendinger and Cole Custer clashed while vying for a transfer spot. Allmendinger’s aggressive move sent Custer’s car spinning into the wall, leaving them to finish seventh and ninth, respectively.
For drivers like Allmendinger and Custer,who missed the initial cut,there’s still hope. They’ll have a chance to earn a spot in Sunday’s race through the Last Chance Qualifier, which kicks off at 6 p.m. ET. Additionally, the driver ranked highest in the 2024 standings who didn’t transfer will also secure a spot.
Sunday’s Race Lineup
Here’s a look at the starting grid for the 2025 Cook Out clash:
| Position | Driver |
|———-|———————-|
| 1 | Chase Elliott |
| 2 | Chris Buescher |
| 3 | Denny Hamlin |
| 4 | Tyler Reddick |
| 5 | Brad Keselowski |
| 6 | Chase Briscoe |
| 7 | Joey Logano |
| 8 | Christopher Bell |
| 9 | Noah Gragson |
| 10 | Shane van Gisbergen |
What’s Next?
The action continues on Sunday with the Last Chance qualifier at 6 p.m. ET, followed by the main event at 8 p.m. ET. Fans can expect a high-octane showdown as drivers battle for supremacy in the 200-lap race.
For those keeping an eye on the standings,ryan Blaney,who leads the 2024 points among the 19 drivers vying for a spot,will be one to watch in the Last Chance Qualifier.
Stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable night of racing at Bowman Gray Stadium. Will Chase Elliott maintain his pole position dominance, or will Denny Hamlin defend his title? Tune in to find out!
Chase Elliott Secures Pole Position for teh 2025 Cook Out Clash at Bowman Grey stadium
The NASCAR Cup Series roared back to life this weekend as the Cook Out Clash qualifying rounds unfolded at Bowman Gray stadium. The event,a thrilling precursor to Sunday’s 200-lap race,saw Chase Elliott clinch pole position after a dominant performance in Heat 1. joining us to break down the action is racing analyst and motorsports expert, laura Thompson.
Chase Elliott’s Dominance in Qualifying
Editor: Laura, Chase Elliott had a stellar run this weekend, securing the pole position for Sunday’s race. What stood out to you about his performance during qualifying?
Laura: Chase Elliott’s performance was nothing short of masterful. He started strong, clocking the fastest lap during the timed practice session, and then carried that momentum into Heat 1. What’s extraordinary is how he managed the physical demands of the track. Bowman Gray is known for its tight turns and intense competition, but Elliott stayed composed and executed his strategy flawlessly.It’s a testament to his skill and experience, especially as the 2020 NASCAR Cup Series champion.
Denny Hamlin and the Defending Champion’s Outlook
Editor: Denny Hamlin, the defending champion, will start in the No. 3 spot. How do you see his chances of reclaiming the title this year?
Laura: Denny Hamlin is always a force to be reckoned with, especially at Bowman Gray. Winning Heat 3 shows he’s in top form, and starting in the top three gives him a strategic advantage. Hamlin thrives under pressure, and his experience in high-stakes races like the Cook Out Clash makes him a strong contender. Though, he’ll have to contend with Elliott’s speed and the consistency of drivers like Chris Buescher, who starts second.
The Drama of the Heat Races
Editor: The heat races were packed with action, particularly Heat 4. What were some of the key moments that caught your attention?
Laura: Heat 4 was a rollercoaster. Ryan Preece’s comeback was incredible—he started in the No. 6 spot and fought his way to third place. His aggressive move past John Hunter Nemechek was a highlight. But the real drama came when AJ Allmendinger and Cole Custer clashed. Allmendinger’s bold move sent Custer spinning, and it’s a reminder of how intense these short-track races can be. For drivers like them, the Last Chance Qualifier offers a shot at redemption, but the competition will be fierce.
What to Watch in Sunday’s Race
Editor: With the lineup set, who are the drivers to watch on Sunday?
Laura: Obviously, Chase Elliott is the one to beat. Starting on the pole gives him a clear track, but he’ll face pressure from Chris Buescher and Denny Hamlin right behind him. I’m also keeping an eye on Tyler Reddick, who’s had a strong season and starts fourth. And don’t forget about Ryan Blaney in the Last Chance Qualifier. He leads the 2024 standings and could be a wildcard if he makes it into the main event.
Conclusion
Editor: Laura, thank you for your insights. It’s shaping up to be an unforgettable night of racing.
Laura: Absolutely! The Cook Out Clash always delivers high-octane action,and this year is no exception. Whether Elliott maintains his dominance or Hamlin defends his title, fans are in for a treat. Make sure to tune in Sunday for what promises to be a thrilling race at Bowman gray Stadium.
