Byron, Bowman pace Daytona 500 field

By Caleb Whisler, Staff Writer

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.—William Byron scored his first NASCAR Cup career pole Sunday during Daytona 500 Pole Qualifying at Daytona International Speedway with a speed of 194.304 mph.

This was Chevrolet’s 700^th pole across all three NASCAR national divisions.

“Yeah, it’s awesome for Chevrolet,” Byron stated. “The Axalta Chevy was really fast. Credit to Chad (Knaus) and all the guys. It’s been a great off-season. We’re prepared. We’re ready. This is kind of the first step of our process together, so hopefully it goes well next Sunday. We can kind of chill out throughout the Duel races and learn a little bit. I’m looking forward to it. This is awesome.”

Defending Daytona 500 pole winner Alex Bowman will start on the outside of the front row alongside Byron.

Out of the six open cars that arrived at Daytona, Casey Mears and Tyler Reddick have locked themselves into the Daytona 500.

The official Daytona 500 field will be set Thursday, Feb. 14 in the Gander RV Duel at Daytona.