Dalton Turner from Pembroke, Ontario is seen beside his 1999 Honda which was part of the Season Ender Bender held at the fairgrounds in Chesterville. Thompson Goddard Photo

CHESTERVILLE – The weather cooperated and the crowds came to the fairgrounds for the 2024 Season Ender Bender on Sat., Oct. 19.

Organized by Chesterville and District Agricultural Society (CDHS) and Ontario Demolition Derby (ODD), the event drew close to 1,000 spectators, with 73 cars participating in 9 categories. “The perfect weather made for an ideal setting, allowing everyone to enjoy a day of fun and community spirit.” said CDAS president Ann Vanderlind in a post event email, before thanking all.

Vanderlind continued how there were fans and spectators from “Kitchener, Renfrew, Western Quebec, and Upper New York State” as well as from the local area were able to enjoy a fun-filled fall afternoon full of excitement. Damien Graham from ODD explained drivers from all over Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec participated in the event, before mentioning how “Every driver drove awesome.”

Firefighters from North Dundas Fire Station in Chesterville, accompanied by a pumper truck, tanker truck and Fire and Rescue vehicle were on site helping to ensure everyone had a safe, enjoyable afternoon, with a pumper truck, tanker truck and a Fire and Rescue vehicle. For those who had worked up an appetite watching the Demo Derby, the Chesterville & District Lions Club as well as the Fat Les’s and the Walking Taco Food trucks offering people a selection of delicious food to enjoy.

Dalton Turner was one of the drivers participating in the Season Ender Bender, driving a 1999 Honda Accord. When asked about why he participates in demo derbies, he answered because “it makes kids happy” before continuing how like others, he is “here for a fun time!” He is part of the Dog Pound racing team from Pembroke, who build and drive together in demo derbies throughout the season.

Vanderlind mentioned how while celebrating the success of the Season Ender Bender, “we are also focusing on our Grandstand Rejuvenation Project planned that is under way for next year. This initiative aims to enhance our facilities and improve the experience for future events. For more information on how you can help preserve the grandstands, please contact info@chestervillefair.com. We want to thank you all who contributed thus far.”

Both Vanderlind and Graham extended a sincere thank you to the sponsors, officials, volunteers and those who attended this fall event. More information on ODD and the CDAS can be found on their social media, website and Facebook pages.