Post by dalejrfan on Oct 29, 2005 0:50:22 GMT -5
Hamlin the top candidate for Gibbs' No. 11 Cup ride
Denny Hamlin has emerged as the top candidate for Joe Gibbs Racing's No. 11 Nextel Cup Series ride and JGR could make his hiring official as soon as next week.
Hamlin, who drives JGR's No. 20 Chevrolet in the Busch Series, has driven three races in the No. 11 this season while JGR has utilized different drivers to find a permanent replacement. Gibbs Busch driver J.J. Yeley has also driven four races with the team.
In his past two races with the No. 11, Hamlin has finished eighth at Charlotte and Martinsville, Va. His best start was fifth at Martinsville.
Earlier this week, JGR president J.D. Gibbs said he told his employees a decision on the No. 11 would be made after the Oct. 29 race at Atlanta.
"Obviously, we are very impressed with Denny," Gibbs said. "Denny and J.J. have both done well with the opportunities they've been given."
Hamlin is fifth in points in the Busch Series this season, with one top-five and 10 top-10 finishes. His best finish is third at New Hampshire.
Denny Hamlin has emerged as the top candidate for Joe Gibbs Racing's No. 11 Nextel Cup Series ride and JGR could make his hiring official as soon as next week.
Hamlin, who drives JGR's No. 20 Chevrolet in the Busch Series, has driven three races in the No. 11 this season while JGR has utilized different drivers to find a permanent replacement. Gibbs Busch driver J.J. Yeley has also driven four races with the team.
In his past two races with the No. 11, Hamlin has finished eighth at Charlotte and Martinsville, Va. His best start was fifth at Martinsville.
Earlier this week, JGR president J.D. Gibbs said he told his employees a decision on the No. 11 would be made after the Oct. 29 race at Atlanta.
"Obviously, we are very impressed with Denny," Gibbs said. "Denny and J.J. have both done well with the opportunities they've been given."
Hamlin is fifth in points in the Busch Series this season, with one top-five and 10 top-10 finishes. His best finish is third at New Hampshire.