This Date in CRA History – April 17, 2004

Lane Scores Anderson Sunoco Opener

Anderson, IN (April 17, 2004) – A huge turnout of race fans witnessed an exciting night of racing action at Anderson Speedway on Saturday, April 17. Jeff Lane won the Sunoco Super Series Late Models season opening-event with Daniel Russell grabbing top honors in the McCrocklin Ford & Mobility Legends and Jeff Swinford narrowly beating Mike Riddle Jr. in the Boss Hogg Pitt BBQ & Catering Figure 8’s.

At the drop of the green flag in the Sunoco Super Series Late Models season-opening event, Lane battled side-by-side with second-year driver Terry Fisher Jr. in the Anderson 150 presented by Great Deals. On the sixth circuit, Lane sailed around Fisher and began a period of dominance.

The first caution period took place on lap 10, when Junior Hanley bumped rookie Bud Adams in the first turn. That forced both competitors to the tail of the lead lap cars. After the green flag reappeared, Lane continued to control the top of the leader board with the top mover, being Canadian Legend Junior Hanley. At the halfway mark on lap 75, Hanley advanced from 26th spot to the top 10.

Under the caution period on lap 96, second-place runner Fisher, was forced to pit road for an oil leak on his No. 81 Chevrolet. This advanced 2003 rookie of the year Chuck Barnes Jr. to second spot with Bobby Parsley in third position.

Over the course of the final laps of the 150-lap event, Barnes was unable to mount a serious charge, as Lane drove to his fifth Sunoco Super Series Late Model victory and his first win at the quarter-mile oval of Anderson Speedway.

Barnes crossed the line in second position, a career-best for the Louisville, Ky., native. Defending series champion Bobby Parsley placed third with Eddie Van Meter and Wisconsin freshman pilot Frank Kreyer comprising the top-five finishers.