BURFORD More than 160 competitors will be at the Burford fairgrounds over the Canada Day long weekend for the Billy Bash Demolition Derby.
“It’s going to be three days of demolition,” said Chris Howell, president of the Burford Agricultural Society, which is holding the event from July 1 to 3 in partnership with I Am Demolition.
“We’ve got drivers coming in from across North America,” said Howell, adding that he hopes they will bring spectators with them.
“We’re hoping to draw people from Brant County and the surrounding area, as well.”
Drivers will be competing in a number of different categories for trophies and more than $30,000 in prize money.
Howell said that about 70 people will be camping on the fairgrounds during the event, which will include a concert by Almost Hip, a Tragically Hip tribute band, on July 1 and a fireworks display on July 2. A beer tent and food trucks also will be set up.
The event marks a revival of the Billy Bash, which has been absent from the demolition derby circuit for the past 10 years.
“We’re hoping to attract 4,000 people over the three days and our goal is to clear $20,000 after expenses,” Howell said. “It’s a huge event for us because the proceeds are used to help support other activities, including our fall fair.”
He said a successful demolition derby will enable the society to put on a better fair, which will be held on the Thanksgiving weekend in October.
Restrictions and public health measures implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have made the past two years challenging for agricultural societies, Howell said.
He said the society hopes the Billy Bash can provide it and the broader community a financial boost.
“Obviously, we’re hoping to bring a lot of people to the fairgrounds over those three days,” Howell said. “But we’re also hoping the event will benefit local businesses.”
Howell said the fireworks display, made possible by a $3,700 grant from Brant County, and the concert are being presented free.
“If you can’t make it to the demolition derby, we hope to see you at the fireworks display or the concert.”
To learn more about the event and I Am Demolition visit www.facebook.com/groups/435864101411446/ .