Escalon's Holmes qualifies third at Sonoma

Escalon's Eric Holmes is in prime position to be a contender at Sonoma again. Holmes qualified third Friday for today's K&N Pro West Pick-n-Pull Racing To Stop Hunger 200.

Defending series champion Greg Pursley set a track record at 77.331 seconds (92.641 mph) on the 1.99-mile road course. Holmes averaged 91.820 mph behind points leader Dylan Kwasniewski (91.869).

Holmes, 37, has finished in the top five in his last five races, placing second after winning the pole in 2008. He finished third in 2009 and 2011, and fourth in 2007 and 2010.

Tracy drivers Ryan Philpott qualifed 22nd and Tommy Regan starts 26th in the 30-car field.