Hamlin Holds On to Win at New Hampshire

Denny Hamlin won his first race of the year by holding off Kyle Larson over the final laps at New Hampshire Speedway on Sunday.  Hamlin led 54 of 301 laps for his third career win at New Hampshire and he did it in a back-up car after crashing his primary car in a Friday practice session.

For the second week in a row, Larson started last and finished second.  He was put to the back of the field when a disallowed part was found on his car after he won the pole.  Larson was gaining on Hamlin over the final 20 laps and closed to within half a second at the finish.  It's the seventh time this season Larson has come in second.

Martin Truex, Jr. had another quick car, but a flat tire cost him.  He was forced to pit under green, but managed to finish third after leading 137 laps.

Matt Kenseth and Kevin Harvick completed the Top 5.  Kyle Busch is still looking for his first win of the season but he didn't do himself any favors.  He led 95 laps, but was penalized twice for speeding on pit road.  He came in 12th.

Aric Almirola was back in the driver's seat of his #43 Ford after breaking his back in a crash on May 13th at Kansas.  Almirola finished 24th.

Next race is next Sunday at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.