NASCAR: Larson handed first pole by Richmond rain

Rookie Kyle Larson has been handed his first NASCAR Sprint Cup series pole position after qualifying was rained out at Richmond.

Rain showers had been falling on the 0.75-mile oval late on Friday afternoon and a light drizzle turned into a downpour prior to the session beginning, resulting in its cancellation so as not to delay the following Nationwide Series race. As a result, drivers will start the ninth Cup round based on their first practice times.

Larson topped the opening session with a best time of 21.280 seconds (126.880mph) and shares the front row with former Series champion Brad Keselowski.

Clint Bowyer and Kasey Kahne occupy row two, while defending race winner Kevin Harvick lines up fifth ahead of Brian Vickers, Jamie McMurray and Ryan Truex.

Current points leader Jeff Gordon struggled to find pace in the first practice session and starts in 25th position.

Early indications are that it should remain dry for the remainder of the weekend.

Originally on Autosport.com