Tagliani holds off Castroneves to take early lead for Indianapolis 500 pole

Tagliani takes early lead for Indy pole

INDIANAPOLIS — Alex Tagliani has taken the early lead in the chase for the Indianapolis 500 pole.

The Canadian used an early run to top 226.2 mph on all four laps to finish with an average speed of 226.392. The closest contender to Tagliani is defending Indy winner Helio Castroneves.

The Brazilian had a four-lap average of 226.388. Former Indy winner Dario Franchitti was third at 226.156.

Qualifying will continue until 4 p.m. The nine fastest cars will then return to the track for a 90-minute “shootout” to claim the pole.

Two drivers, Mario Moraes and Tony Kanaan, crashed during qualifying but did not appear to be seriously hurt.

Danica Patrick was 18th on the grid after getting through the qualifying line.