Jimmie Johnson Wins First Road Course Pole

Three time Sprint Cup champion Jimmie Johnson, who will be making his eighth start at the 2.45 mile road course this Sunday at Watkins Glen International, was able to outrun Penske driver Kurt Busch to grab his first road course pole by a mere eight thousandths of a second.

Jimmie, whose last pole came at Phoenix International Raceway on Nov. 9, 2008, has yet to win a race here, with his best finish coming in 2007 when he finished third.

Jimmie, who comes into this weekend second in points with three wins, sounded very optimistic about his and the 48 teams chances this weekend.

“I am really excited and happy for the team. We worked really hard to improve our road course program and I have been working hard as a driver to figure out what to do right.”

Jimmie already knows he will have his work cut out for him come this weekend, knowing road courses are not one of his strengths.

So how does a driver who has had little success on these types of tracks prepare himself for the weekend ahead?

“There are so many variables on a road course. It is hard to pick just one. The thing I have reeling in my head is that there are a lot of opportunities to lose time on a road course and very few opportunities to make time.”

Jimmie was asked how much of a difference there is between the two road courses, Infineon Raceway and Watkins Glen International.

"The speed is the first thing that comes to mind. The speed of Watkins Glen is so much higher."

"But also the track is so much wider and the corners are low and much more sweeping, which gives you that speed. So they are two totally different approaches."

Optimism, as well as confidence have always been key words to the 48 team. So why should this weekend be any different?

“I'm becoming much more aware of what these cars need on road courses. We were very fast at the race last year at The Glen, so I think we have a shot; our best shot yet."