Ken de la Bastide: JEGS All Stars racing for increased purse at Anderson

Mar. 19—It was announced this past week, when the JEGS/CRA All-Stars Tour for pro late models returns to Anderson Speedway, there will be an increased purse.

Series officials announced the winner's share has been increased to $4,000 for the O'Reilly Auto Parts 100 on May 4.

The last time the series was at Anderson Speedway was in 2022 when Nicholas Naugle scored the victory over Brett Robinson and Dylan Bates.

Over the years only Trent Snyder and Cody Coughlin have recorded more than one win during the pro late model competition.

The first points race for the drivers will take place at Berlin Raceway in Michigan on April 27.

Florida driver Steven Nasse won the non-points race in Georgia in January.

Charlie Keevan, who ran a limited schedule last year with the McGunegill Engine Performance late models, was at Anderson Speedway this past weekend in preparation for the May 4 event.

During the Saturday practice session, Ryder VanAlst, the son of Greg, was practicing in an Anderson Speedway late model with plans to run 10 of the 12 races.

Greg VanAlst was the 2023 ARCA Racing winner at Daytona and is the current points leader for the series.

Ryder was impressive in the practice laps he ran, turning laps in the 13.4-second range, and appeared to have the racing line around the quarter-mile oval figured out.

Anderson resident Colin Grissom, who suffered a severe hand injury in an industrial accident last August, was on hand at the practice session.

Grissom is returning to racing action in a sprint car on Indiana's dirt ovals and is currently seeking a ride for the 76th running of the Little 500.

IN OTHER RACING NEWS

Veteran Georgia driver Bubba Pollard continued his strong start to the 2024 season with a win in the Rattler 250 for super late models in Alabama.

Pollard also won at the January race in Georgia and is scheduled to make his first Xfinity race start later this year at Richmond.

This weekend is the $1 million challenge for the IndyCar Series in the made-for-television race at the three-mile Thermal Club road course in California.

There will be two heat races which will set the 12-car field for a 20-lap race which will be divided into two 10-lap segments.

The winner of the "all-star" race will pocket $500,000.

Follow Ken de la Bastide on Twitter @KendelaBastide, or call 765-640-4863.