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Sheppard grabs narrow lead after opening weekend in Midwest Big Ten Series late models

 

 

 

 

MACON, Ill. – Steve Sheppard Jr. almost rallied to steal the win at Macon Speedway Saturday night that would have completed a weekend sweep, but the New Berlin driver settled for a first place and a close second to take the Midwest Big Ten Series lead in late models after the first two races in the 10-event tour.

Sheppard charged to the lead following a tough battle Friday night in the Big Ten late models opener at Jacksonville Speedway, then tried to come from behind at Macon Speedway but couldn’t quite catch winner Ryan Little in a stirring duel that brought the fans to their feet on a gorgeous Saturday night. Little's lead evaporated because of a late bobble, but he held on for the close victory in the 30-lap feature.

Sheppard is the reigning Big Ten late models champ, and he left the weekend with 118 points to take a narrow lead in the points standings. Little, of Pleasant Plains, finished third at Jacksonville Speedway in the series opener before holding off Sheppard at Macon Speedway to score 116 points. A driver's top eight finishes among the 10 races will count toward the championship.

Big Ten Series late models return to action at Macon Speedway on May 10 for the third race in a series that will also visit Lincoln Speedway and Quincy Raceways.

Midwest Big Ten Series late models

Points standings (through April 12)

Steve Sheppard Jr. (New Berlin) 118
Ryan Little (Pleasant Plains) 116
Matt Taylor (Springfield) 110
Greg Kimmons (Pleasant Plains) 104
John Beck (Springfield) 100
Jake Little (Pleasant Plains) 98
Keith Vandorn (New Berlin) 86
Justin Reed (Collinsville) 58
Roger Brickler (Springfield) 50
Adam Mefford (Jacksonville) 48

 

 

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