Creativity, speed and fun on tap at Saturday’s annual cardboard derby

FIFE LAKE – Mother Nature might be providing the final touch in preparation of the sixth annual Carly’s Hill Snow Fun Day Cardboard Classic set for Saturday, Jan. 26.

More snow.

Northern Michigan, including the Fife Lake area, is projected to get at least several inches of snowfall prior to Saturday’s races down Carly’s Hill at the Springfield Township Park & Recreation Area, located at the intersection of Lund and Creighton roads.

“The hill is looking good,” said Tammy Budrow, who helps coordinate the event. “Plus, this extra snow we are getting helps.

“It looks like it’s going to be cold (about 10 degrees), but we all bundle up we can still have a great time.”

Each year, dozens of entries, from simple cardboard boxes to highly decorated palaces, and even a WWII Tiger tank, have competed for a variety of honors at the cardboard classic. This year will be no different, according to organizers.

“It’s always a great time,” Budrow said. “My goal (for this year) is 71 sleds. That would be our biggest number to date.”

There are few rules participants need to follow. The sleds are to be built out of cardboard and duct tape, as well as the creativity of those building each entry, as participants will again compete for various awards and prizes, including “People’s Choice,” longest distance and the best wipe-out.

No pre-registration or fee is required for the derby. Registration starts at 11 a.m. Saturday and is planned to end at noon, with distance runs down Carly’s Hill beginning at 1 p.m. Safety helmets are required for entrants, regardless of age.

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