Star Warrnambool driver Jamie Veal has firmed as favourite for a maiden Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic crown following a dominant performance to take night two honours at Premier Speedway.
Veal took a flag-to-flag win in the Saturday final after his best friend and fierce rival Jamie McFadden won Friday night’s final.
The result has set up a blockbuster Sunday showdown for the greatest prize in Australian speedway.
Despite a sluggish time trial, Veal said the rest of his night was perfect after he placed first and second in his two heat races to qualify on pole for the 30 lap final.
He finished ahead of American duo Kyle Hirst and Randy Hannagan who rounded out the podium in front of another bumper crowd.
Behind them was Jamie Maiolo, Kraig Kinser, Robbie Farr, Jason Sides, Steven Lines, David Murcott and Garry Brazier in tenth.
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Veal, who heads into night three as the top points qualifier, admits he’s never been better placed to win his home town Classic.
“When we finally got going it was a strong performance after struggling in time trials,” the quietly spoken Veal said after his victory.
“I hope we’re back here tomorrow night, it would mean the world to me and my team, bring it on.”
Hirst’s second placing was notable as he bids to defend his Classic title.
“These last couple of weeks have been about building to this weekend,” the Californian said.
“Hopefully we’re in with a show again tomorrow, I’d love to go back-to-back.”
The top ten in points ahead of tonight’s final round of heats and preliminaries are: Veal, Ryan Jones, Hannagan, Ben Atkinson, Hirst, Jamie Maiolo, Farr, John Vogels, Chad Ely and Garry Brazier.
Several big names have tough assignments ahead, including night one winner McFadden (11th in points), World of Outlaws stars Kerry Madsen (12th) and Brad Sweet (15th), and former Classic champions Steven Lines (19th) and Brooke Tatnell (23rd).
A sellout crowd is again anticipated tonight ahead of the 24 car, 40 lap, $30,000 Classic finale.
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