Derby, moto-rodeo bring fair to close

Common sense dictates violent collisions with oncoming cars should be avoided, whatever the cost. However, for competitors in Sunday’s Big Horn County Fair demolition derby, all caution was thrown to the wind as soon as they crossed the gates.

Over the last several years, entries in the event have begun to dwindle, but ticket sales and enthusiasm remain high.

“The derby turned out great. It was the first one I have ever organized and I feel it was a hit,” said Cash Duncan, the Big Horn County Fair operations manager. “We paid out all $10,000 and had lots of happy contestants and, I hope, lots of happy fans.”

Luck, however, was on the competitor’s side.

 “It was my first win in 21 years of derby-ing!” said derby champion Ricky Vaught. “I had some really good luck and I am so happy I got to win in front of my family. Even though there are less entries, we have just as much fun.”

Alongside an overdue triumph, the volunteer firefighters and paramedics who attended the event to provide assistance when needed were left to enjoy the show.

Bravely driving his way to first, Vaught won the grand prize of $2,500 donated by local business and community members; behind him Chase Mead, winning $1,250; and Brad Christopherson and Peyton Gonzales in third and fourth, respectively, winning $300 each. 

Blake Williams took first in the truck division, winning $1,050; Matt Hurley followed Williams and won $525; followed by Riley Schaffer, taking home $200.

Crashing into another car at high speeds can cause more than just cosmetic damage to the cars. Despite that, competitors found joy in the harsh event.

“I always enjoy getting to hang out with the Gonzales boys. They’ve always been good sports and willing to jump in and help me fix my car even after hitting each other in the arena,” Chase Mead explained. “All the people that were helping put it on were really friendly and seemed to care. I think we all want to grow a bigger and better show someday.”

To encourage more competition, and to ensure the crowd got what they paid for, Duncan also added a “moto-rodeo.” 

Separated into four heats, community members could enter either the ATV or side-by-side divisions, or ride in on their dirt bikes. 

“I hadn’t competed in a barrel race before, so the day before, I went for a ride on my dirt bike and did a few practice corners,” said side-by-side and dirt bike champion Jonah Cook. “I had a great time and definitely didn’t expect to walk away with $500. 

“It was run very well and I would definitely do it again if I get the chance.”

Winners of the different barrel race heats were awarded a $250 prize for their efforts too. The winner among ATV riders, Chris Waddell, took first with his time of 22.431 seconds; side-by-side racer Jonah Cook’s fastest “run” was 23.849 seconds; Cook also won the dirt bike division with a speed of 19.223 seconds.