Glasgow, O'Dekirk Gear Up For Saturday's Route 66 Grudge Match

JOLIET, IL - Some Joliet and Will County officials have waited an entire year to defend their title. But a couple have individual scores to settle with their rivals, their public office counterparts who sneaked out a victory. And Saturday night, with the grandstands filled with cheering drag-racing fans, the second annual Route 66 Classic Grudge Match will take place at Joliet Route 66 Raceway. Last year, Will County won the competition over Grundy County, 4 wins to 2. Most importantly, more than $20,000 was raised from the 2016 event for several area charitable organizations.

If you head out to Route 66 Raceway Saturday, you're in for a treat. The day-long festivities include a Classic Car Show, a Vintage Market and a Pin-Up Contest. The six individual grudge racing events take place during the evening.

The Will County crew will be represented by State's Attorney James Glasgow, County Executive Larry Walsh, Sheriff Mike Kelley, Joliet Mayor Bob O'Dekirk, Police Chief Brian Benton and Fire Chief Joe Formhals. They square off against their foes from Morris and Grundy County.

Friday marked a short practice session where local public officials got on the track to get in some practice laps if they desired.

Last year, Grundy County State's Attorney Jason Helland defeated Glasgow by 0.06 seconds.

Will Glasgow get his revenge on Saturday night? Why not head out to Raceway 66 Raceway yourself and watch this once-a-year friendly drag-racing competition of local mayors, police chiefs and fire chiefs?

You can also visit the Route 66 Classic website to learn more information about tickets, prices and Saturday's event schedule.

Images via Route 66 Raceway