In only its third year of operation, the CRA Sportsman series has vaulted its way to the top of today’s Anderson Speedway schedule of events.

The series, based in Winchester, consists almost exclusively of Indiana drivers. About 25 drivers are expected at tonight’s event, which should begin between 8:30 and 9 p.m.

Anderson Speedway also will feature the ARCA Lincoln Welder Truck Series 75 and the front-wheel drive figure 8’s. The gates will open at 3:30 p.m., with racing set to begin around 7 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $4 for children ages 6-12 and free for ages 5 and younger.

According to CRA co-managing partner Glenn Luckett, the series serves partially as a developmental level for the CRA’s late-model series, although some likely will be satisfied competing at the Sportsman level.

“These cars are just a little slower and cheaper,” he said. “We started it to give guys a place to gain experience for the late models. It’s a good mix of young guys and veterans.”

Anderson resident Brandon Phillips is expected to be among the competitors at tonight’s event, which also was run at Anderson Speedway each of the last two years. This will be the only appearance for the series at Anderson Speedway this season.

Luckett said the approximately 25 drivers who are expected to race is about the normal amount for the series. Steve Blair won last year’s race, while Al Cook Jr. took the 2006 event.

This will be the ARCA Lincoln Welders Truck Series’ fourth appearance at the speedway, also having race at the track in 1999, 2000 and 2007. Steve Cronenwett won last year’s race. More than 20 drivers from five states have entered this year’s race.

The Quick Auto Front Wheel Drive Figure 8’s will race for the second time this season. Andy Keller won the inaugural event March 29, edging Nick Warner and Donnie Ellis.