I first heard about Kirby Derby 2008 from Doug Sutton last week and then I viewed the website http://www.kirbyderby.com . As someone who is a big NASCAR fan and who loves to race go-karts I decided to check it out. Sadly after spending most of my time downtown Raleigh for the Raleigh Typhoon 2 Scavenger Hunt, it started to rain so I thought the event was going to be cancelled. But little did I know as this would be my first time attending the Kirby Derby that a little summer rain shower wouldn’t’ stop the Kirby community! I arrived just in time for the start of the parade, when included four wheelers, Elvis and water guns.

The parade actually started during a light rain shower but the crowed and everyone was ready to for the drag race and derby run to begin and so was I. The drag race was a few guys dressed in drag, speed walking in heels, which was pretty funny and last year’s champ “Paula Dean” was defeated. I overheard a few guys shouting “bring on the derby” and I was in agreement with them. The derby started off the two kids racing down hill, then it was time for the big boys to bring out their custom home made derby karts. The rules ware simple you must have "at least 3 wheels, no engine, working brakes, and wear a helmet" via kirbyderby.com website. The derby races where two karts at a time, and I think they had four or five racing heats, then a race off to see who would be the 2008 Kirby Derby winner. During the racing heats I think there were about five wrecks in the curve, I captured two of them on video with my iPhone but one was real bad and I hope the driver and one of the onlookers are ok.

Overall even after the rain I would say the Kirby Derby 2008 was a blast, and maybe next year I’ll have a kart in Kirby Derby 2009.

Take a look at my photos and videos from the event.

Related Links

1. http://www.kirbyderby.com
2. Saturday With The Raleigh Native
3. Kirby Derby Takes West Raleigh By Storm… Literally