Qualifying: Gordon takes fourth pole

It was the four-time NASCAR champion's third pole at Martinsville, and his second of the year after he achieved the feat back in April. Gordon went on to win that race, his sole victory so far this season.

Ward Burton was a surprise second fastest, in his final race for Bill Davis Racing after eight seasons. Burton will switch to Haas CNC Racing's Pontiac for the final races of the season beginning next weekend at Atlanta, before a full-time drive with the squad next year.

Dale Earnhardt Jr was third fastest, ahead of Kenny Wallace, Kevin Harvick and Jimmy Spencer - who rebounded strongly after a crash in morning practice.

Rusty Wallace was seventh quickest, just ahead of his Penske South team-mate Ryan Newman, with Sterling Marlin and Jeff Green rounding out the top ten.

Championship leader Matt Kenseth was 14th fastest with Tony Stewart, who won last weekend's race at Charlotte, 16th.

It was a tough session for Robert Yates Racing. Dale Jarrett crashed on his flying lap and was forced to take a provisional start, while team-mate Elliott Sadler will also start from the back after he was unable to start his lap after his car failed a technical inspection.

Jeff Gordon Chevrolet 20.220s
Ward Burton Dodge 20.322s
Dale Earnhardt Jr Chevrolet 20.358s
Kenny Wallace Dodge 20.367s
Kevin Harvick Chevrolet 20.394s
Jimmy Spencer Dodge 20.405s
Rusty Wallace Dodge 20.406s
Ryan Newman Dodge 20.408s
Sterling Marlin Dodge 20.429s
Jeff Green Dodge 20.430s