Demo derby crashes into Barrhead July 22

BARRHEAD – The Barrhead Demolition Derby is set to return for another day of truck and car-crunching action this Saturday, July 22, at the Barrhead Agricultural Society grounds. 

The derby begins at 1 p.m., though it will be preceded by an event called “Power Hour” from 11 a.m. to noon. 

“Power Hour is a part of our day where we let all of our contestants bring their vehicles into the ring to let the fans walk amongst the trucks and cars, and they vote for their … best paint job,” said Ashley Mast, a member of the Barrhead Ag Society who heads up the derby. 

The derby itself runs for about five to six hours; Mast noted it depends on the number of vehicles entered, as well as the amount of time each vehicle actually lasts in the ring, whether that’s two minutes or 10. 

The pre-registration deadline was over a week ago, and while they are nearly full up on trucks, car registration is (and has always been) a little lax, Mast said. 

“It’s getting harder to find the makes and models that are available to do the demo derby,” she added. 

Mast said they changed up their build rules this year in the hopes that “it will bring some more car interest to our community.” 

It should be noted that competitors can register for the derby right up until the day of the event, though they won’t get the discount for pre-registering. 

Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for youth and free for children six and under. They can be purchased by going to showpass.com and searching for Barrhead demolition derby. 

"We’re certainly encouraging online ticket purchasing with all of our Ag Society events, because that is the way of the world nowadays,” Mast noted. 

In recognition of the fact that not everyone has Internet access or wants to use their credit card online, Mast said they sold tickets on site throughout the afternoon on July 15. 

Following the derby, the Ag Society will also host a cabaret for ages 18 and up inside the Agrena at 9:30 p.m. 

“It's something extra and fun and exciting for everyone to come and enjoy,” said Mast. “We hope that is super-successful as well.” 

The cabaret will feature a performance by country artist Garrett Gregory, whose single “Leavin’ You" can be seen on Youtube. Tickets are $20 and can also be purchased online at showpass.com. 

As for bad weather, Mast said the derby can go ahead provided they don’t get hit by a huge downpour. 

“If it’s too wet on the track for the trucks and cars, it’s not going to make for a very good show," she said, adding that it can also be hazardous for the audience. 

"In all the years I’ve been part of the derby, we’ve never cancelled a show (because of weather). I’m hoping that it doesn't come to that.” 

For more info, visit the Ag Society's website.