Get ready for a Spicewood smash-up this weekend
By Alexandria Randolph
Junkyard warriors and clunker racers are putting the final touches on their derby vehicles for the Annual Spicewood Demolition Derby to take place Saturday, Sept. 20.
Racers who have put together derby cars will fight to remain the last car running in the arena. The demolition derby benefits the Spicewood Volunteer Fire Department and EMS
Gates will open at 4 p.m. and races will begin at 6 p.m., said Spicewood Assistant EMS Coordinator Jamie Ludwig.
“We already have pre-registered 20 racers,” she said, “and we allow people to register day of, so we may get more. We’ve got enough compact cars registered that we’re thinking about have two compact car heats.”
Held as a fundraiser for the Spicewood VFD-EMS, the event started in 1992 with 10 men and 5 female drivers in front of a crowd of 1,000 to 1,500 spectators. Now, the crowds have grown to just under 4,000 and sit on bleachers the fire department has invested in with donations and watch as 25 to 30 vehicles enter different races
Ludwig said that five female racers have registered this year.
While the majority of the smash-n-bash will be the same family fun as last year, the department is making a few small changes as the crowd has grown.
“We might change the seating to accommodate bringing your own chair or standing room,” Ludwig said.
Former Spicewood VFD Firefighter Craig Schlicke will be the announcer this year.
“We’re hoping for a really good turnout,” Ludwig said.
Tickets to the derby are $10 for adults, $5 for kids under 12 years and coolers may be brought in for a $5 fee. No glass containers or pets are allowed for safety purposes.
Ludwig expects the stands to fill up quickly.
“If you want a seat, you’ve got to get there early!” she said.
The derby will take place behind the Spicewood VFD Fire Station on TX 71 and CR 413.
In case the event needs to be delayed due to rain, it will be rescheduled on Saturday, Sept. 27.
A full concession with drinks and food will be available. More information is available by calling Donna Wall 512-785-0054 or Patsy Lester at 512-755-0001.
