Chariot Race: Four Fathers Win $1,500 in Madison

Four men from Madison defeated 23 other teams to claim the top prize at the Red Bull Chariot Race held on Oct. 17. The group, known as Fast and Fatherly, collected $1,500 and 60 cases of Red Bull after crossing the finish line on Langdon Street. More than 3,000 spectators watched the event unfold.

The winning crew stands out for two reasons. None of the four members are college students, and three of them are new fathers. The fourth member identifies himself as a soon-to-be dad. Their vehicle was constructed to resemble a baby crib and featured their children's toys as decorations.

Sam Peterson competed while wearing a baby carrier that held a doll. He told reporters that the physical effort was greater than he had anticipated. Teammate Micah Palmer dressed in a baby costume and expressed hope that his children would learn that self-humiliation can lead to fun. The three fathers stated they intend to use the cash prize for a family vacation.

The race format paired 24 teams into 12 head-to-head matches. Competitors started outside Memorial Union and raced toward a turnaround at Lake Street. At that point, participants had to solve a puzzle, switch positions, and return. Judges evaluated the carts on construction, creativity, and a pre-race skit. Red Bull provided each team with $200 to cover building costs.

Aaron Colton, a professional motorcycle stunt performer, served as one of three judges. He noted that creativity accounted for more than half of the scoring. Colton described the puzzle as the great equalizer because it leveled the playing field regardless of how long teams had prepared. His judging panel included Kayla Ruedebusch, a Madison-based creator, and Jay Wanserski, a local bar owner.

The Eagle Has Landed took second place after performing a patriotic skit involving a choreographed lift. Senior Joe Jaroski and Erin Kelly spent hours rehearsing that maneuver. Grouchiator Maximus finished third. Minion Mayos placed fourth with approximately 30 supporters dressed as Minions cheering from the sidelines. The second and third place teams also received unique Red Bull sponsored events.

Madison marked the fifth stop on a nine-city tour that primarily visits college towns. Jada Cerniglia and Tommy Violet hosted the event for the first time. Colton had previously judged the race at two other locations. Some teams were first-time participants, including Team Super Badgers, a group of freshmen who were surprised when their application was accepted.