News Summary
The Motorhome Madness demolition derby will take place at the O.C. Fair’s Action Sports Arena, benefiting the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). Local first responders, including firefighters and police chiefs, will participate in exciting competitions, fostering community spirit. This year, Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens will join the derby, igniting a friendly rivalry with Newport Beach’s mayor. Proceeds support families facing medical care costs at CHOC, and attendees will enjoy free admission to the O.C. Fair with their tickets.
Orange County Hosts Annual Motorhome Madness Demolition Derby
The Motorhome Madness demolition derby is set to make a splash at the O.C. Fair’s Action Sports Arena on July 30 and 31. This exciting event serves as an annual fundraiser benefiting the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC). Every year, the derby not only offers thrilling entertainment but also fosters community spirit by bringing together local first responders, including firefighters and police chiefs.
Key Event Details
Doors will open at 7:30 p.m. on both nights, with shows beginning promptly at 7:30 p.m. This year’s competition will showcase firefighters, police chiefs, and mayors from cities like Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Orange, and Anaheim. Notably, the event will feature different crash configurations, including a figure-8 track on the first night, designed to maximize excitement for attendees.
This year’s derby holds special significance as Costa Mesa Mayor John Stephens will participate for the first time, driving an old Lincoln sedan, marking the initiation of a friendly rivalry with Newport Beach Mayor Joe Stapleton. On the second night, Costa Mesa Fire Chief Dan Stefano and Interim Police Chief Joyce LaPointe will join the competition in an RV battle. Local first responders are eager to connect with the community through this event while showcasing their human side.
History and Purpose of the Derby
The origins of the Motorhome Madness demolition derby date back over a decade, initiated by Dave Padua, the owner of Southside Towing. The idea was born from Padua’s experience at a Monster Jam rally, where he was inspired by an RV’s unique potential for demolition. What began as an informal event with a single entry has significantly evolved over the years, now involving numerous police and fire vehicles. Southside Towing has continued to support the event by providing vehicles, often sourced from donations and other tow yards.
The derby has become a competitive spectacle, featuring not just local first responder teams but also exciting antics that captivate crowds. Proceeds generated from the event directly benefit families struggling with the financial burdens of medical care at CHOC, aiming to provide vital support to children in need.
Community Engagement
In preparation for the event, participating first responders have taken steps to engage with the community by touring CHOC and interacting with child patients. This connection emphasizes the importance of community support while reinforcing the bond between first responders and the residents they serve. With its mix of thrilling competition and heartfelt community involvement, the Motorhome Madness demolition derby promises to be an event that brings joy and entertainment to all.
Tickets and Additional Information
Attendees can purchase tickets through the CHOC fundraiser website. Every ticket sold includes free same-day admission to the O.C. Fair, enhancing the experience for those attending. With the anticipation building and an exciting lineup of events planned, the derby not only stands as a unique competition but also highlights a significant cause, rallying the community together in support of children’s healthcare.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: O.C. Mayors, First Responders Bring Mayhem to Fairgrounds During Motorhome Madness
- Wikipedia: Motorhome
- OC Register: The Crunch of Metal – Demolition Derby Shows are a Crowd Favorite at the O.C. Fair
- Google Search: Demolition Derby
- Los Angeles Times: Chiefs to Battle it Out at Motorhome Madness Demolition Derby
- Google Scholar: Demolition Derby events
- OC Register: Photos from the 2024 O.C. Fair on Film
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Demolition Derby
- Los Angeles Times: First Responders Prep RVs for Motorhome Madness at the O.C. Fairgrounds
- Google News: O.C. Fair
