Kraig Kinser, Dale Blaney and Steve Kinser delivered a crushing blow to sprintcar rivals in a thrilling finish to the 35-lap World Derby grand final at Sydney’s Valvoline Raceway.
It was a giant turnaround from last night’s preliminary feature race where Steve Kinser finished upside down after hitting an outside ledge of the fourth turn three laps from the end.
Track conditions were testing with a slick track that turned like pavement, but the moment it took rubber, the fine dust disappeared and the real race began.
Ian Madsen, the Australian international, took the lead and had to fight off a determined Dale Blaney who became stronger by the lap.
Kraig Kinser gave up trying the inside line and went to the high side where he immediately gained ground.
Starting from around 16th position in the 24 car field was the 20 times World of Outlaws champion.
He was sensational to watch as the 58-year-old worked his magic in the traffic.
Steve ranged up on Max Dumesny and Ian Madsen who touched and Kinser split them in a flash.
Blaney succumbed to the constant pressure of Kraig who was in no mood to settle for second.
Once in front, he drew away to win from Ohio’s Dale Blaney and his dad, the King of the sprintcar set.
It was a great result for the Kinser clan, Bad Boy Buggies, Ohio’s Dale Blaney and Active Power Steering sponsor and car owner David Doherty.
“This is my first main event win in Australia and I’m really pleased to do it here at Valvoline Raceway,” Kraig said.
“I can’t say how good this feels for our team and with a little luck, we might get close to doing the same here on Wednesday night in the AGP.”
