Buescher dominates Kentucky Truck Series race

SPARTA, Ky. (AP) -- James Buescher held the lead for most of the way in temperatures approaching 100 degrees, fending off challengers to win the NASCAR Truck Series race at Kentucky Speedway.

Buescher, who started the night fourth in the series driver standings, took the lead for the first time just 27 laps into the 150-circuit race and dominated the rest of the way.

It was his second career Truck Series victory, following a win at Daytona to open the season.

The temperature was 98 degrees - on the track it was 117 - when the race began.

Pole-sitter Matt Crafton led before Buescher took over and didn't let go.

Sprint Cup driver Brad Keselowski started 17th but climbed back to finish second. Ty Dillon was third.

Copyright 2012 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.