Demolition derby brings out hundreds in Iroquois Falls

People don’t usually enjoy being in car crashes or watching them… unless it’s at a demolition derby.

In that case, around 2,000 people will converge at a snow dump in Iroquois Falls to watch dozens of vehicles collide.

That’s why it’s the flagship event at the town’s 10-day winter carnival, according to mayor and event chair, Tory Delaurier.

"The demolition derby is the highlight of the Carnival,” said Delaurier, adding that the event saw one of its largest turnouts in the last two decades.

“I walked around the bowl and everybody's so happy of what we're accomplishing in our small community.”

Spectators from around the region and beyond watched drivers from across the province and beyond battle to be the last derby vehicle standing.

The louder the crash, the more cheers from the crowd.

It's an adrenaline rush for all involved.

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"It’s legalized road rage,” said derby contestant Don Turner, a seasoned derby competitor from Gravenhurst, who took first place in this derby.

“You can get in there and you don't have to worry about getting hurt, necessarily, because you've taken all the precautions of safety features."

Demolition derby drivers spend considerable time and resources to build vehicles that can take damage and dole it out, said local derby driver Jamie Cramer.

He built three cars for this event, adding that it has become a more expensive passion to pursue lately.

"You build something, it takes you a couple weeks to build it and then you go out and in less than 15 minutes, you wreck it,” Cramer said.

"You try to put a good show on for the crowd, that's what we do it for.”

Organizers topped up the first place prize to $1,000, to encourage more fierce competition and thank drivers for making the trip.

"Just being able to hear the crowd applaud you, when you win or lose,” said Turner.

“Get them on the edge of their seats."

The town’s carnival celebrations will continue through to March 19, with activities, food and entertainment to get families out and enjoying the rest of their March Break, in a uniquely northern Ontario fashion.

The 10-day carnival’s full schedule can be found on their Facebook page.