Krazy Downhill Derby returns

CHESTERTOWN | It isn't often that a community winter pastime persists through six decades, but when it comes to the beloved Krazy Downhill Derby, that is exactly the case. For the 60 year, this February on Saturday the 21, contestants will give it their all in handcrafted snow sleds as they dare descend Dynamite Hill. "This is a really great, fun day out on the hill," said Craig Leggett, North Warren Chamber of Commerce Board President. "Friends and neighbors gather to see everyone make it down the hill. Held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the event piques the interest not only of children, but also adults. Many families have- and continue to- make the derby a personal family tradition, enlisting parents and grandparents to spend quality time with children with a hands-on building project that stands a good chance of becoming a favorite childhood memory. "This is a chance to make something fun and see how it goes," Leggett said. "It is also a great event for any local business to build their own sled and make history." The Krazy Downhill Derby is held rain (snow) or shine, and conditions on the hill are expected to be conducive to quality sledding- snow is in the process of being made as we speak. The descent down the hill will take about 30 seconds to a minute, and the competition can be stiff. The laws of physics and construction need to be taken into consideration if one wishes to win the title of fastest sled team. The races will kick off at 11:30 a.m. with the free kids' competition that allows strictly for cardboard sleds. Every young contestant will receive a complimentary North Warren Chamber of Commerce headlamp. Children will be able to get their faces painted prior to the race to give them an added boost of sledding spirit. And at high noon, the big sled race takes off, where adults and/or adults accompanying children compete for one of three trophies and 2026 bragging rights. "Last year's derby we had one of our best turnouts with 15 sleds," Leggett recalled. "This year, we would love to surpass that and see 20 come enjoy the day with us." Contestants are asked to come prepared with their sleds. For the adult sleds, any material is allowed in the construction of their sled, the only stipulations are that sleds must have brakes, and there must be some ability to steer. Sleds will be inspected prior to the race to ensure they fall within the guidelines. No more than four riders are allowed per sled, and helmets are required. "Over the years, we have seen some very interesting designs," Leggett said. "One year we even saw the Millennium Falcon from Star Wars made into a sled." Sleds are also named; the Rotary Club's 'Rotary Rocket' comes to mind. In addition to the sledding events, attendees are encouraged to take part in the entire Dynamite Hill Recreation Area will be open and accessible- the ice skating rink, and the snow shoes and cross country ski trails. And of course, no winter's afternoon would be complete without hot chocolate, ice cream Sundaes thanks to Stewart's, and hot dogs courtesy of Glens Falls National Bank. Music will be provided by Absolute Sound, and a basket raffle will also round out the day's activities. "Spectators are welcome and encouraged to come out and enjoy the treats and the day regardless of being in the competition," Leggett emphasized. A fundraiser for NWCC's North Warren Central School scholarship fund for well over a decade, the derby helps the chamber award two $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors, so an entrance fee of $20 for the adult sled race helps the chamber consistently meet that goal. Registration may be made with the NWCC ahead of time, or may be done the day of the race. For more information or for those interested in sponsoring the Krazy Downhill Derby, please call 518-494-4722 or email info@northwarren.com for more information. Dynamite Hill is in Chestertown, NY.

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Krazy Downhill Derby returns

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