Spring Classic Entry Available; Heat Race Changes for 2026

2026-03-31

The Big 8 Late Model Series has officially released the entry form for the 49th Annual Spring Classic at Grundy County Speedway, scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2026. Drivers planning to compete are encouraged to submit their entry forms prior to 4/15 to ensure eligibility for Weekly Warrior Wages bonuses and other incentives.

One of the biggest changes for the 2026 Spring Classic will affect events with smaller car counts. New for this year, heat races will now determine the feature lineup for events with 18 cars or less. In addition, heat races will now pay the top three finishers, adding additional incentive and competition during preliminary events.

Under the new format for fields of 18 cars or fewer, all cars will be locked into the feature, and the feature lineup will be determined using a combination of qualifying time and heat race finishing position for the invert order. This change is designed to simplify the program for smaller fields and make for more entertaining on-track product.

The Spring Classic will once again feature a 58-lap main event. Drivers are reminded that pre-entry is required to be eligible for bonus programs, and entry forms should be submitted by 4/15.

Entry forms can be emailed or mailed to the Big 8 Series office, and additional event details can be found on the official entry form.

The Big 8 Late Model Series looks forward to kicking off the season once again with one of the Midwest’s premier pavement late model events at Grundy County Speedway.