Down and dirty
Monday, October 30, 2006 9:50 AM PST
Jennifer Colton | Argus Observer
Weiser
The mud flew and spectators from across the western Treasure Valley participated in a “mud-boggin' good time” on Mortimer's Island Saturday during Weiser's Third Annual Mud Bog Drag Racing event.
The pits opened at 10 a.m. and 41 drivers and their pit crews began arriving to set up and prepare for the races along one side of the track.
On the other side of the 100-foot mud pit, vendors, provided by the Weiser Recreation Department, set up booths featuring hot dogs, chili, soft drinks, coffee and ice cream.
When the spectator gates opened at noon volunteers directed cars toward the parking area and the stands began to fill.
Many spectators also brought their own chairs, blankets and lunches.
Reserves from the Weiser Police Department provided security, and the Weiser Rural Fire Department was on hand in case of an emergency.
After a mandatory driver's meeting, the races started around 1 p.m. with the Pro Mud class - any vehicle with any engine or modifications.
Then the mud flew.
Drivers could compete in one of eight classes: stock, super stock, pro stock, powder puff, monster truck, pro truck, mud modified or pro mud.
“I made it through, that's all that mattered,” driver Nick Naillon, Payette, said after his “stock” class race. “I thought I wasn't going to make it through, the mud was pretty deep. It was fun.”
Drivers were timed in each heat and the two trips were then averaged to give the competitor a final score.
Sean Thompson stood between the two track lanes and dropped the flag at the start of each race.
“I think it's pretty great,” he said between the two heats. “I'm amazed how much these guys love racing. I'm very impressed.”
After the first heat, participants chipped mud off tires and made any repairs or tire changes.
A tractor also raked the track, resetting the lanes for the second heat and concluding grudge matches. Trophies were awarded for first- through third-places in each class.
Courtney Thompson, economic development specialist for Washington County, organized the event and said she wanted to thank all volunteers.
“I think the event was a huge success,” she said. “Everyone stated they had a lot of fun and it was run really smoothly. I hope to have a bigger turnout next year.”
