Danica Patrick Leads Laps in Historic Daytona 500

She became the first woman to lead a lap in the famed race

Danica Patrick has made more history at Daytona International Speedway.

Patrick became the first woman to lead a lap in the famed Daytona 500 on Sunday. She led two laps — Nos. 90 and 91.

Fans were on their feet as Patrick beat Michael Waltrip to the front of the field on a restart.

Patrick started the 200-lap race on the pole after becoming the first woman to qualify in the top spot. She failed to lead the first lap, though, falling behind three-time race winner Jeff Gordon.

Nonetheless, it was a big moment for NASCAR and Patrick.

Patrick also made history as an IndyCar driver. She led 19 laps as a rookie in the 2005 Indianapolis 500, becoming the first woman to lead open-wheel racing's premier event. She finished fourth.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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