From the cheers and applause in Glendon on Saturday, it's clear that Glendon and area loves its Derby Daze. For all the smashing and bashing of metal and tires and bumpers falling off, the derby provided those in attendance a great show.
The drivers, although many are just 16, showed great showmanship and demonstrated superb driving skills, and of course lots of smashing ability. As important as the drivers were crews working behind the scenes to keep cars and trucks running after taking a beating in the first round of matches. For those who proceeded to finals or the grudge match, a lot of maintenance expertise went into keeping those vehicles running.
As important at the derby were the mud bog drivers who showed the strength of their trucks as well as their driving abilities by getting through the bog and over the hill. The day set a record attendance of over 3,000. Due in no small part to the team of volunteers with the Glendon Ag Society, the Derby Daze is sure to continue to be successful for years to come.
The RCMP Musical Ride also impressed Lakelanders who came to see the performance at the Rodeo Grounds on Friday. If the smiles on the faces of the RCMP members riding the horses were an indication, the riders had as great a time as the audience. Performing a variety of cavalry movements set to music, the 36 members demonstrated great horsemanship and showmanship skills. Proceeds went to two great local organizations, the Bonnyville Health Foundation and the Bonnyville Pro Rodeo and Chuckwagon Association.
The night before, Thursday, Lakelanders went to Players Lounge to support four charities at the Dream Wheels Weekend ride auction. The evening also allowed people to preview some of the great rides people were paying $300, $400, $500, or more to ride in on Aug. 28. Three Lamborghinis were driven down from Lloydminster to show potential bidders what they would be buying. From what organizers on the Dream Wheels Weekend committee are saying, the event promises to be a huge success and the first of its kind in Canada.
From the Glendon Derby Daze to the RCMP Musical Ride and the Dream Wheels Weekend ride auction, summer just keeps getting better and better in the Lakeland. To all the hard working organizers: keep up the great work!
