The Shawville Fair’s Demolition Derby will be returning this year, albeit under new management.
That’s because the crashing and smashing will be run by the Ontario Demolition Derby in 2017, a group that’s well-established in the car-busting business.
But fans of the previous years needn’t worry about any changes, as the group is taking over for logistical reasons over anything.

“I think that the only real problem of the past was volunteer base. It is hard for most fairs year after year to keep people interested to produce a show of that size,” said Jim Grant, president and owner of the Ontario Demolition Derby. “I have not heard anyone say that they did a bad job. But I do know that it is a big stress dealing with that many people over a six- to eight-hour period.”
Set to be held at half past noon on Monday, Sept. 4, long-time fans can expect the usual business of the afternoon – mainly a lot of whiplash and broken-in bumpers.
“As to what we hope to bring is a semblance of order and Lalonde Towing assures me that he can keep the track area cleaned up after each heat, so it should be a smooth show,” said Grant.
This year’s show will feature a variety of classes, from full-size vehicles to old irons, which are classified as any pre-1980 two-wheel drive hard top automobile. Teenagers with their learner’s permit may participate as well, in the mini smash demolition, figure eight and demo-x events.
“We have had numerous calls and emails and texts regarding the derby but numbers only count on the day of,” said Grant.
Drivers and their teams competing in the full-size show are expected to register ahead of time, by getting in contact with the Ontario Demolition Derby. Competitors in the other classes only have to show up the day of, giving themselves and the staff ample time to clear them through registration.
When asked if he’s heard much about drivers attending from further beyond the Pontiac or Ottawa Valley, Grant said he has heard some chatter. But most of their talk won’t buy anyone more than a small coffee at Tim’s, he added, so he’s waiting to see who’s there for noon the day of.
Cash prizes will be awarded, meaning there’s all the more reason to get suited up. First place in the full-size class will be awarded $3,000 and a trophy, while the same spot in the other categories take home $1,000 each.
Specific rules and regulations for those interested in signing up can be found through the Shawville Fair’s website.