What happens when 1.2 inches of rain falls just before a derby? You find yourself pondering all the possible challenges ahead: a muddy arena, a slow-moving storm, and a power outage. Just when you're about to call it and cancel the event, a miracle occurs.
While we were speaking to the ticket holders, Wil Steinbeck was busy organizing a driver's meeting. The derby drivers had come to put on a show and were determined not to leave without doing just that. With no power and no clear timeline for its return, the drivers made a bold decision: the derby would go on, no matter what.
As they revved up their cars to line up in the arena, another miracle happened—the power was restored! A huge thank you to Wheat Belt Public Power District for making the night possible. We quickly brought in heavy equipment to clear as much mud and water as we could, and the flags dropped at 8:35 PM. We even managed to sell over 300 additional tickets!
Three heats, a $100 man run for the kids, some slip and slide mud action, and a lawn mower race later, we wrapped up the night at 10:30 PM. It was a testament to a community that refuses to lose hope, no matter the circumstances. We are truly grateful to each and every one of you who stood by us and kept the faith. What a show it was!
These derby drivers came here for one reason, to put on a show! And they are doing just that! We are running this derby and the crowd is ecstatic