Drag Racing: Steve ‘Janspeed’ Anderson

Author : cmunroe

I did not know the guy personally, but you could not be a member of the ‘fast-car’ fraternity and not know ‘Janspeed’! There were so many stories relating to him and his ‘wicked-machine’. There were countless stories. Here was a character, that for myriad reasons, he was a topic for individuals who had a relentless passion for ‘fast-cars’ and drag racing. You could not speak about ‘Janspeed’ and not mention the striking-blue Evo which he had, which was a star in its own blockbuster movie.

In the days of old when ‘church’ would take the format of a blast along well-known, but treacherous pathways, some individuals would withstand our version of sub-zero temperatures (think anywhere between 12am – 3am), waiting to see the machine! And when it appeared, you would understand why it was so highly revered. I could attempt to describe how delicious the anti-lag system was on that machine, but you would not understand. I could go even further and outline the voice of motorized-mayhem that emanated from the bowels of the combustion chamber of his machine, but again, you would not understand. You simply had to hear it or see it in action at the track, to fully comprehend how significant the machine was.

Blue Evo

This is still my favorite ‘Janspeed’ story. I was told that the machine (the blue Evo) was built and tuned to consume what the best chef could deliver – race-gas -. So, even when it was being street-driven, it was being fed a race-gas diet! ‘Janspeed’ was a popular guy, a cool guy, but a showman nonetheless. So, when  ’Janspeed’ was on any of his tours of the city, travelling to ‘church’ or elsewhere, bursts of speed were a part of the norm. It is common knowledge that these machines are rather thirsty in the fuel consumption department! As such, to ensure that his machine was kept well-fed with premium speed-juice, ‘Janspeed’ would be accompanied by another vehicle (2 vehicles) which was responsible for transporting the valuable liquid!

Hopefully, someone will see it fit to honour the former drag racer, ‘Janspeed’, at Speedwest Weekend.

Remember Speedwest Weekend – Jamwest Speedway – Feb 28- March 1,2015.

Nb. We at all times advocate that we operate according to the rules of the road.

Cecil Munroe Gleaner On-Line Writer

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5 Responses to “Drag Racing: Steve ‘Janspeed’ Anderson”

  1. Teenie Bopper says:

    May his soul rest in peace! He was an awesome guy. He will be missed dearly.He was indeed the King of motor racing and I must admit he was a really good driver.

  2. cmunroe says:

    Welcome Teenie Bopper. Well said.

  3. Heather Knox says:

    He was a very good friend who later became the father of my now 19 year old daughter Kayla.We use to journey all the way from Port Antonio to watch him race that Evo.

    I was literally afraid of that car, it really sounded cross,angry and miserable.Driving was his passion and his dream and even though he died young he lived and accomplished his dream,when he did 9 seconds at Vernam Field.

    R.I.P Steve, you were indeed a legend. He will be laid to rest this Sunday,March 29,2015 at 3pm in his home town Port Antonio

  4. cmunroe says:

    Hi, Heather. Welcome, despite the circumstances. As stated, ‘Janspeed’ was loved and respected in various circles. Thanks for the information and I am certain everyone who he was connected with will continue to celebrate his life.

  5. Dayna says:

    RIP my uncle. Miss you endlessly.

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