Have you ever visited a small-town late summer, early fall? It’s fair time, and while the fair offers a wide variety of fun and interesting things. The demolition derby is by far the main attraction.
The exact place and time that the first derby was held is hard to pinpoint, it could have been as early as 1947 at Carrell Speedway or much later in 1958 at New York State’s Islip Speedway. Either way the birth of the demolition derby happened in the United States. The concept took off and spread quickly across the nation. Car enthusiasts were lining up to participate and the fans support catapulted this motorsport event into something that would be enjoyed by young and old for many generations.
Check out the three interesting and fun facts listed below and keep them in mind when you are planning something fun to do with the family.
Roles and Regulations for participants
The list of rules may vary form place to place so check ahead before entering, you don’t want to be disqualified before you even start. Everyone must pay an entry fee to drive in the derby and must be at least 16 years old and in possession of a valid driver’s licence. The battery must be relocated for optimal exposure and all the glass has to be removed from the vehicle for oblivious safety reasons.
Drivers are not allowed to hit other cars in the driver’s door and you will be disqualified immediately should that happen. A head on collision will also result in being instantly banned from the competition.
Many other rules apply to the demolition derby like the amount of reinforcement you can make to your car or truck or working with other competitors to block someone in. Always check with the event co-ordinators and ensure you are aware of all the rules.
Derby’s and Fairs
It’s fair time in small town anywhere and the entire community is busy getting ready for all the excitement. The talk of the town revolves around the derby, and everyone is filled with anticipation. The demolition derby has been part of fair scene for several generations and has become an annual tradition for many families.
If your planning to attend the derby, make sure you get there early because the stands will fill up fast and after that it is standing room only. It doesn’t matter though; you are at the derby. It’s getting dark and the cars are coming in, the noise level is getting close to breaking the sound barrier, the countdown begins and their off. Your excitement level is off the chart. Hopefully the arena is good and muddy, it will be good one.
The Future of Demolition Derby’s
The derby became a part of the fair circuit in the 1950’s and is still very much a thrilling event in today’s world. The future of the demolition derby is in jeopardy of becoming a thing of the past. Many countries in Europe have already banned demolition derbies because of environmental issues like the leaking fluids and no exhaust systems.
It is probably only a matter of time before North America follows suit and does the same. If that happens motorsport fans will be upset to see the end of an era that they have grown to love.
If you seek thrills and excitement the demolition derby is the place to go, you will be exhilarated and guaranteed to have the most fun ever.
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