Kenter Brothers Dominate Demolition Derby

Justin Kenter (right) crashes into brother Jason Saturday evening at the 77th annual Effingham County Fair. 

By KURT BECKER

ALTAMONT -- A pair of brothers from Teutopolis dominated the pickup truck division of the demolition derby Saturday night at the 77th annual Effingham County Fair, making quick work of the opposition before battling each other to a standstill in front of a near-sellout crowd. 

Justin Kenter, driving a 2002 Ford, took the checkered flag after a prolonged battle with older brother Jason, as the two collided several times before grinding to a halt at virtually the same moment. Jason, who was defending champion, climbed from his 1998 Ford and removed his helmet, causing the crowed to burst into applause as public address announcer Jon Becker declared Justin the winner.

"It was just a really awesome experience," said Justin, who pocketed $800 for the victory. "Growing up watching my uncle Tim Koester run, I always thought it would be cool to win a hometown show with such a huge crowd. Battling it out against my brother made it even that much better."

The Kenter brothers learned from one of the best in the business, as their uncle was a two-time modified champion at the fair.

"My uncle was the one who got us into this addictive sport," said Justin, with a laugh. "Unfortunately, I don't remember his wins, but I remember watching him run several times. And I want to thank the fair board for having the pickup truck class. I really appreciate it."

In other action, Dieterich native Christa Hollinshead took top honors in the "ladies only" division, while McLeansboro drivers Blake Siedler and Trevor Jackson captured the modified and compact titles, respectively. In the semi-stock class, Brad Mizeur of Oconee edged defending champion Kirby Manuel of Pana.