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Yearly Combine Derby Attracts Big Crowds
Combine demolition derbies have been held occasionally across North America.
But perhaps no place relishes smashing up old combines as much as the small farming community of Lind, Wash., population 800. Nearly everyone in town turns out each year for the final heat of the town's annual combine demolition derby. T
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Yearly Combine Derby Attracts Big Crowds AG WORLD Ag World 22-4-24 Combine demolition derbies have been held occasionally across North America.
But perhaps no place relishes smashing up old combines as much as the small farming community of Lind, Wash., population 800. Nearly everyone in town turns out each year for the final heat of the town's annual combine demolition derby. The derby is a warm-up for an even bigger event - the annual rodeo.
"The town's wide open this weekend," says one farmer about Lind's cafe, bar, billiard parlor, and City Park, all deserted in favor of the community's rodeo grounds a mile out-side of town.
The object of the derby is simple: do as much damage as possible to opponents' ma-chines.
The rules are simple. The combines must remain basically stock, although engines can be souped up. And braces and bars may be added to protect hydraulic lines, gas tanks, radiators, and drive belts (on some really ancient models). Headers must be welded stationary 14 to 18 in. off the ground to protect the drivers who sit above them.
Drivers are required to wear seat belts and safety helmets.
Each heat includes four combines and takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the skill of the contestants and speed of the machines. A short recess is held after each heat to clean up sheared off parts and remove vehicles unable to leave under their own power. Losers in early rounds can repair their machines and compete in later heats.
A few of the more eye-catching contestants: Captain Hook - an International 453 painted in a red, white and black color scheme reminiscent of the Disney character; "Crazy" Rod Melcher's Lemco combine that looks like an airplane with stubby wings and propeller; Bauermeister Brothers Massey 510 and International 151 which are painted lavender and blue, respectively; and the "Chicken Cowboy" which has a painted chicken head on front with four plumes sticking up.
The winner? Ritzville-area farmer and state representative Mark Schoesler with his "Green Turtle" combine.
First, second and third prizes are $750, $250, and $100, respectively.
Derby proceeds go to support the city's Little League and other programs.
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