Exciting Demolition Derby Wraps Up the Effingham County Fair

A total of 50 cars entertained the sell-out crowd at the 49th annual demolition derby as the Effingham County Fair came to a close Saturday night.

In the modified class Chris Tegeler, of Teutopolis, driving a mid 1970's Chrysler, outlasted everybody in the 11 car feature to take the victory. Brian Beckman of Dieterich was the runner-up, while Devin Mette of Effingham finished third, with Adam Meyer of Teutopolis fourth and Ben Riemen of Montrose fifth out of the 22 car modified field.

Dave Klitzing of Altamont and Brad Mizeur of Oconee tied for the top honors in the six car stock-class as the final blow put both drivers on the clock with neither able to recover. The two drivers and track officials conferred, and it was agreed that Klitzing would take home the 1st place trophy while the first and second place prize money was split evenly between the top two drivers. 

In the compact class it was ladies night as Kelsey Ort of Mason claimed the victory and Ashley Yocum of Watson finished second. With the crowd cheering them on, the popular duo bested the boys in the 18 car field. It was particularly impressive as the two had already competed in the women only "powder puff" class where Ashley Yocum earned the trophy in the event that opened up the action Saturday night.