EISF Demolition Derby big debut

As the East Idaho State Fair comes to an end, the Demolition Derby is just getting started. Saturday, the much-anticipated event is expected to have a massive turnout. For over 40 years, this sell-out event has become a staple of the East Idaho State Fair.

The September Slam Derby is the final event of the year which attracts everyone at the fair. Derby officials are anticipating over 8 thousand spectators for this evening’s event. As of earlier today, there were 51 registered cars for the derby, but that number grew throughout the afternoon. As popular as this is, most people don’t know how this event supports the community of Blackfoot.

Wade Wilcox, event director and member of the Blackfoot Elks says, “The Elks lodge has put on this event for 44 years to support youth programs. The Blackfoot Lodge has spent a minimum of 35 thousand dollars [annually] on youth programs right here in the Blackfoot area from this night alone.”

Wilcox has been a part of the event for over 20 years. He loves the demolition derby and takes competition very seriously. However, as much as he loves the sport, he feels most gratified by the money raised towards supporting the many youth programs in Blackfoot.