Local Fathers Claim Victory in Chariot Derby

Four men from a local church group secured the top prize in the Red Bull Chariot Race held on October 17. The crew, known as Fast and Fatherly, outperformed twenty-three other teams during the event on Langdon Street. Over 3,000 onlookers watched the competition unfold.

The winning group collected $1,500 and sixty cases of Red Bull. They stood out in the field because none of the members were university students. Three of the competitors are new fathers, while the fourth describes himself as a soon-to-be dad. Their vehicle was designed to resemble a baby crib and featured their children's toys as decorations.

Sam Peterson, one of the victors, noted that the race proved more difficult than anticipated. He competed while wearing a carrier that held a baby doll. His teammate Micah Palmer dressed in a baby costume and expressed a desire for their children to learn that one can enjoy oneself even when feeling embarrassed. The three fathers intend to use their cash prize for a family vacation.

The event paired the twenty-four teams into twelve head-to-head races that started near Memorial Union. Competitors had to solve a puzzle and switch positions at a turnaround point on Lake Street. Judging criteria included the construction of the vehicle, the level of creativity, and a pre-race skit. Red Bull provided each team with $200 to help cover building expenses.

The team called The Eagle Has Landed finished second. Their skit featured a patriotic theme and a choreographed lift. Joe Jaroski, a senior and member of the Wisconsin cheer team, spent significant time rehearsing that lift with fellow senior Erin Kelly. Matt Kleist, another teammate, described the experience as a memorable part of his senior year. Grouchiator Maximus took third place, finishing ahead of Minion Mayos, who had roughly thirty supporters dressed as Minions cheering from the sidelines. Both losing teams receive special events sponsored by Red Bull.

Aaron Colton, a professional motorcycle stunt performer and Red Bull athlete, served as one of three judges. He stated that creativity accounted for more than half of the score. Colton noted that the puzzle acted as a great equalizer for the competitors. The other judges were Kayla Ruedebusch, a Madison-based creator and professional foil athlete, and Jay Wanserski, the owner of Wando's and Jay's Bar. Ruedebusch highlighted the creative elements as a distinguishing feature of the race.

Madison marked the fifth stop on a nine-city tour that primarily visits college towns. Jada Cerniglia, a university volleyball alumna, and Milwaukee comedian Tommy Violet hosted the event for the first time. Colton had previously judged the race in two other locations. The audience included family members of competitors, prospective students, and local residents. Tohnie, a university alum who formerly lived on Langdon Street, expressed her affection for returning to what she calls her home away from home.