Drivers to watch at the Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic

HISTORY REPEATING: Can Warrnambool's Corey McCullagh leave his opponents in his wake and win a second straight Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic? Picture: Morgan Hancock

The South West Conveyancing Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic has attracted 102 drivers from Australia and America.

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Sports journalist JUSTINE McCULLAGH-BEASY looks at some of the leading contenders ahead of the three-night showcase at Allansford's Premier Speedway.

There’s the new kid on the block, the past winners, home-town chances and the entertainers.

Drivers will be split into two sections for qualifying on Friday and Saturday nights with the top 96 cars to compete on Sunday for chance in the 24-car, 40-lap finale.

LET ME ENTERTAIN YOU: Tim Kaeding is a crowd-pleaser with his exciting driving style. Picture: Rob Gunstone

Tim Kaeding - USA

An electrifying driver who produces bold moves and isn’t afraid to test the boundaries. Won the 2014 Classic and is the most experienced of the five Americans in the 2019 field.

AMERICAN DREAM: Cory Eliason wants to return to the United States with a new trophy. Picture: Morgan Hancock

Cory Eliason - USA

In his third stint in Australia and feels at home on the Premier Speedway track. Led the World Series Sprintcars round at Allansford on New Year’s Day before James McFadden jumped ahead with three laps to run.

HOME-TOWN CHANCE: James McFadden calls Warrnambool home and is well acquainted with the Premier Speedway track. Picture: Morgan Hancock

James McFadden - Australia

Drives an eye-catching yellow car to go with his eye-catching ability. A crowd favourite who wants to add a second Classic crown alongside his 2017 victory.

REAL DEAL IN TEAL: Jamie Veal is a past Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic champion and a fan favourite. Picture: Morgan Hancock

Jamie Veal - Australia

The ‘Real Deal’ calls Warrnambool home and has a strong following. A past Classic champion who will fancy his chances in his SWI Racing number 35.

Gio Scelzi - USA

Part of the next generation, this 16-year-old ace became the youngest driver to earn a Knoxville Nationals A-Main berth when he achieved the feat in August.

HIGH HOPES: Corey McCullagh came from ninth in 2018 to win the Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic and is hoping to secure back-to-back victories. Picture: Christine Ansorge

Corey McCullagh - Australia

The reigning champion was a surprise winner in 2018, coming from ninth to win in front of his home crowd. A perfectionist who leaves no stone unturned.

Carson Macedo - USA

The Californian is back for his third Classic attempt after finishing second last year. An emerging driver who is a consistent performer.

FLYING IN: American racer Parker Price-Miller is an emerging driver on the US circuit. Picture: Christine Ansorge

Parker Price-Miller - USA

Young American who got his first taste of the Classic 12 months ago. Races on the famed World of Outlaws circuit.

NEW TEAM: Kerry Madsen is hoping to win another Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic, this time with Krikke Motorsport. Picture: Morgan Hancock

Kerry Madsen - Australia

The ‘Madman’ is a daring driver who is based in America and loves making a statement when he returns home. Chasing a fourth Classic title.

BEEN THERE, DONE THAT: Brooke Tatnell knows how to win big races. Picture: Morgan Hancock

Brooke Tatnell - Australia

A three-time Classic champion who also has nine podium finishes to his name, including third place the past two years.

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