Hamlin fastest in morning session

Joe Gibbs Racing driver Denny Hamlin had the fastest lap in the morning test session for NASCAR Sprint Cup Series teams at California Speedway. It was another fast day for Toyota, which has posted top speeds during the two previous preseason test sessions at Daytona Internationals Speedway and Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Joe Gibbs Racing switched engine manufacturers over the winter, from Chevrolets to Toyotas, and has been surprisingly fast in testing.
“I think the guys at Gibbs are going to run really well,” said Carl Edwards, driver of the No. 99 Ford for Roush Fenway Racing. “The talent is spectacular. The drivers, they’re as good as anyone in the garage. For that reason, I think they’re going to be tough.”

Tony Stewart and Hamlin made the Chase last year driving for Joe Gibbs Racing. Kyle Busch, a newcomer to the team, made the Chase last year driving for Hendrick Motorsports, which also used Chevrolet power.
Toyota made its debut in Cup last year and didn’t win a race or have a driver in the Chase. But Toyota drivers, and not just the Joe Gibbs Racing drivers, have been fast in testing and look strong so far.
“I don’t believe that Toyota has shown any real weakness or anything,” Edwards said. “They’re going to be really tough competitors. I’m hoping it will make it that much more fun to beat them with my Ford. I hope they don’t run away with anything. But I think they’re going to be tough.”