Curious which drivers you should keep an eye on at each World of Outlaws Late Model Series event? Series Announcer Ruben Mireles will bring you his top-five* picks each week.
This week: Illini 100 at Farmer City Raceway in Farmer City, IL, April 11-12
RUBEN’S TOP FIVE:
1. Bobby Pierce
Why: It’s a homecoming for Bobby Pierce this weekend as we return to the “Land of Lincoln” at the track that sits 45 minutes from his house. Pierce comes into the weekend as the defending Illini 100 champion. Moyer and Sheppard are three-time Illini 100 champions, but neither of them won it three years in a row. Pierce has that opportunity after big momentum in the South, winning two of the last three outings with the Outlaws.
2. Brandon Sheppard
Why: It’s been a dry spell for Brandon Sheppard lately, but there’s no better chance than this weekend to rebound and find victory once again with the Series. Sheppard ties Moyer as the only three-time Illini 100 champion and has finished in the top five seven of his last eight Illini 100 starts.
3. Nick Hoffman
Why: Hoffman made his first Illini 100 start a year ago and gave the hometown hero a run for his money both nights! After a blockbuster finish on Friday, edging Pierce at the line after a slip up in Turns 3 and 4, Hoffman also managed to run a solid second in the finale. With tons of DIRTcar Summit Racing Equipment Modified Nationals wins at Farmer City, Hoffman knows the fast way around.
4. Tyler Erb
Why: When in the Midwest you always must count in the DIRTcar Summer Nationals Champion. “Terbo” conquered the Hell Tour a year ago and has built a good notebook for these Illinois bullrings. Farmer City is a track I’m sure he’s excited to get back to, especially after finishing on the podium in last year’s Illini 100!
5. Drake Troutman
Why: While it’s very challenging not to write/pick Shannon Babb, Jason Feger, Mike Spatola, Ryan Unzicker, or many other local Illinois hot shoes, I had to pick Drake Troutman. Drake has adapted quickly with Team 22, Inc and has become the new MD3 Rookie of the Year Point Leader after Swainsboro. New winners aren’t rare recently at Farmer City after seeing two first time winners here in 2021 (Spatola/Pierce). Sitting fourth in the standings, momentum is high and could see Troutman battling for a win!
You can follow these drivers and more all weekend at Farmer City Raceway, April 11-12, by getting your tickets in advance or at the gate.
If you can’t make it to the track, you can watch every lap live – with Ruben Mireles – on DIRTVision.