This year could be the last for the Blue Heron Fair’s demolition derby.
Unless the event sees more entries, derby lovers can say goodbye to the popular smash up extravaganza.
Brenda Petruchik, who organizes the derby with her husband Greg, said there was a time when the arena was filled with 30 vehicles.
Although the crowd has remained the same, entries have been dwindling and the last few years have only seen 13 to 16 cars and trucks. In 2013 only three cars registered.
“We still have the big crowds. The spectators aren’t our problem at all, it’s to get the drivers,” said Brenda. “It would be a shame to see it not happen. I’d hate to lose it, but I don’t know what to do to keep it.”
Brenda is hoping to see a rise in participant interest and get 25 vehicles in the ring this year, though she added that number is more of a dream than an expectation.
In an effort to salvage the crowd-pleasing show, a meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 11 at 7:30 p.m. in the Ag Barn. Brenda said if she can get the interest, then she can go forward with the group and formulate a plan.
Those thinking about entering a car or truck are encouraged to come out to the meeting. Drivers must be 16 years old and hold a valid driver’s license in order to qualify, but the meeting is for anyone who wants to prevent the derby’s end.
“I don’t want it to just be drivers at the meeting. I want people who are interested in keeping this going,” she said. “We’ve just got to have the support of people who really want this to stay in Barrhead.”
The biggest roadblock for interested drivers, said Brenda, is actually finding a car in Alberta suitable for entry.
“Old, that’s what you’re looking for,” said Brenda. “When they were still metal cars instead of plastic cars, trucks too.”
Trucks are much easier to find than the cars, but Brenda said she could help find the vehicles. Each year she and Greg already track down and buy two for the derby.
“We just hunt on Kijiji or you go on Demo Addicts on Facebook, they’ll post a lot of cars for sale,” she said.
Not only are cars difficult to track down, the process of preparing the vehicles is another challenge.
The entire vehicle needs to be ripped apart. It has to be stripped down to nothing, said Brenda, from the windshield to the whole interior.
“It’s a big job. It’ll take a couple days just to rip it apart,” said Brenda. “And you’ve got to know something about mechanics if you’re going to make the engine run.”
Additionally, there are the derby’s specifications and rules as well, like where the battery box and fuel tank goes.
“You need people to help you,” said Brenda. “But I know any of the guys in the derby would help anybody out. Greg would help anyone out.”
Maybe there are some retired mechanics out there who could offer their knowledge too, she added.
Although help is nearby, all of this costs money. Affordability is another issue. Brenda said there are many drivers who want to enter, however they don’t have the money to do so.
Sponsorship from local businesses is a good way to allow entry for drivers who normally couldn’t afford the process. Not only does this open up doors to more participants, said Brenda, it’s also a great promotional opportunity for business owners.
“I don’t think there’s better advertising than that derby,” she said.
If you are a business owner in the community looking to sponsor a car and driver, or an individual interested in taking part in the event, please contact Brenda Petruchik at 780-674-1764.
