All the mayhem and twisted metal of the 42nd annual Rocky Lions Club Demolition Derby returns to North Saskatchewan River Park on Aug. 25.
Cars and trucks of all sizes beware, as organizers say dozens of vehicles get smashed up every year, with over 40 already signed up for the 2024 event, and more likely to be signed up last minute.
The rules are simple: cars bang and crash into one another, and the last one standing is the winner, says Kevin Harrold, Lions Club treasurer. One rule is doors are painted white, and intentionally crashing into the side of a vehicle is not allowed.
Heats can take up to 15-20 minutes, says Harrold, while other times the wreckage happens quickly.
Demolition categories include full size cars, mini cars (four and six cylinders), full size trucks, and new for 2024, organizers say it is adding a 3/4 ton category for maximum mayhem.
It is the single largest annual fundraiser for the Rocky Lions Club, says Harrold, with the event raising around $40,000 that goes right back into the community.
Among the local Lions Club initiatives are a school lunch program, helping those in need with medical expenses, a program to help those who have lost their homes to fire, among others, says Harrold.
The event is family friendly with those of all ages welcome, says Harrold, with food and ice cream trucks on site, as well as a young, local entrepreneur opening a candy table.
The derby is indeed a popular event, says Harrold, with over 2,000 attendees annually.
For those who want to participate, or have an old vehicle they’d like to see destroyed, Harrold says the derby will be taking registrations right up until the morning of the event. People can also pre-register their vehicle ahead of time at Rivers Edge Mechanical (5004 44 St., Rocky Mountain House).
Throughout its history, Harrold says the Demolition Derby was first held at the old rodeo grounds in Rocky, after that facility closed, it was then held for two years at Shipplet’s farm just outside of town, and has been at its current home at North Saskatchewan River Park for around a decade.
Harrold adds the community spirit runs strong during the event.
“It’s just a lot of fun for us to see each other, to go in the ring and bang up against your friends,” says Harrold. “We’re pretty proud that we get to keep it going.”
Harrold credits the hard work of former derby chairman Ernie Closs, who, he says, was really key to making the derby into the great event it is today.
Attendants will be directing traffic to available parking near the rodeo grounds with a shuttle running back and forth so everyone can safely get to and from the event.
Admission is $20 for adults with kids under age 10 getting in for free. Tickets are cash only at the gate, with ATMs on site.
Other annual fundraising events for the Lions Club include its annual talent show, food drives throughout the year, as well as table and chair rentals for events that also serve as a fundraiser for the organization.
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