May 15, 2023 |
Photo – Demo Derby – Courtesy Carbon County Fairgrounds website
Preparations have begun for this year’s famed demolition derby in Rawlins. Not only is the derby the final event of the Carbon County Fair and Rodeo, but it always is one of the most-attended events during the week-long celebration of all things western.
Last week, Rawtown Riot organizer, Lonnie Pacheco, held a meeting with event volunteers. Pacheco said the gathering was meant to address safety concerns and discuss expanding the number of participants.
Pacheco said as part of his push for increased staff safety, he is working with a local communications company to install emergency indication lights in the arena. Pacheco said the drivers will know to immediately stop when they see the lights go off.
Pacheco said 44 drivers participated in last year’s demolition derby.
The event organizer said he altered the rules to be in line with Stirrin’ Dirt regulations. Stirrin’ Dirt is a large producer and promoter of demolition derby events in the Western United States. Pacheco said more drivers can participate this year because of the change.
Pacheco said only six people attended last week’s Rawtown Riot meeting. The event organizer said he needs more volunteers to make the demolition derby a success.
Pacheco said people should go on the Rawlins Demolition Derby Facebook page or the Carbon County Fairgrounds website, if they’re interested in volunteering.
If you would like to volunteer for this year’s event, call Lonnie Pacheco at 307-321-3625.
The 2023 Rawtown Riot Demolition Derby will be held on August 5th at the Carbon County Fairgrounds. Gates open at 3:00pm and the event begins at 5 in the afternoon.
