Crash–up’s, tractors and free Sunday’s – oh my!

September 9, 2015 · 0 Comments

The Shelburne Fall Fair tales place from September 18th to 20th, and local residents couldn’t be more excited.
Hosted by the Shelburne & District Agricultural Society, this 148th annual event celebrates the harvest – and the love of all things that go “vroom”.
That’s right, the Demolition Derby and Lawn Tractor Races are returning for 2015!
For anyone who knows me, you know that not only did I go into the 4 cylinder class figure eight race at the Shelburne Fair five years ago, you’ll also remember that I went into the finals and won! What a rush to beat all the boys!
For those of you that haven’t been to a ‘crash-up’ derby before, you have to see this.
The Derby is the highlight of most fall fairs, and once you see one, you’ll want to come back year-after year – maybe even as a contender.
It starts with the fun of stripping down a car to the bare chassis, and making modifications to the battery and gas tank. Then a coat of paint (my favourite colour is pink), and finally, a chance to cross something off your bucket list.
There are different classes depending on your engine size (4, 6 and 8 cylinder). The 8 cylinder cars are the real monsters, and drivers like to rev up their engines before smashing into you – anywhere except the drivers side door which is off limits.
The best derby’s include the sound of metal crushing; roll overs and maybe even an engine fire – but don’t worry, Shelburne’s Fire Department is always on hand, ring side, in case of such an emergency.
So on Saturday September 19th, make your way over to watch (what is in my opinion)the best show on earth – the Shelburnw Fall Fair Demolition Derby. The action starts at 5 p.m., but get their early to make sure you can get a seat.
Another favourite at the Fair is the Lawn Tractor Races.
Sponsored by Larry’s Small Engines, there is typically four different classes you can compete in: stock, super stock, modified and super modified. Adults do not race the youth in this event.
Each year Jesse Squirrell kick s-butt in the super modified class.
Everyone thinks that because she’s a girl, she will be easy to beat, but not so. Jesse is the best lawn tractor racer I have ever seen, hands down.
Too bad we won’t be able to watch her this year, as she is expecting her third child and the Shelburne Free Press wishes her the best of luck – we can’t wait to see you back next year.
Every year, the Lawn Tractor Race gets bigger and better, with competitors coming from all over Dufferin County and even from outside of the area to compete.
If you haven’t seen a lawn tractor race, then make your way to the Shelburne Fair grounds on Sunday, September 20th at 10 a.m., and check it out.
Shelburne Agricultural Society Fall Fair president, Bruce Peterson, wishes to remind everyone that admission on Sunday September 20th this year is free – complements of Dufferin Wind.
“This is the first time this has happened, and I hope that as many people as possible take advantage of it,” he said.
See you at the fair!