Staff photo by Clay Schuldt The Grandstands were full for the Brown County Demolition Derby. The 80s Stock division was one of the most popular classes and divided into two heats. Brad Wiltscheck in the #342 car took first prize in the second heat.

NEW ULM–A rough estimate from ticket takers place as many of 3,000 demo fans in the grandstands Saturday night.

The Saturday demo derby was a long awaited event. It marks the 50th anniversary of the Demolition Derby at the Brown County Fair.

Saturday was intended to be the second night of the derby but Wednesday’s derby was postponed due to the weather. It will be held today at 2 p.m.

Saturday’s show more than made up for it. Dozens of extra cars registered for the event. In total, 65 vehicles were entered in six different demo classes, including two ’80s heat, an Old Irons class, a Truck division, a Sub-compact class and a Welded Free For All.

Cash prizes were awarded to top four drivers in each class.

In the first 80s heat Phil Whittington finished first, followed by Anthony McDermott in second, Nick Schwab in third and Dusty Scharbach in fourth.

In the second 80s heat Brad Wiltscheck outlasted the other driver to take first, while Chad Ludwig took second, Chad Helget took third and Randy Mosloski finished fourth.

In Old Irons, Dustin Reinhart came in first, David Engelking took second, Kyle Rewitzer finished third and Jason Rewitzer took fourth.

Kevin Andrews finished first in the Truck division followed by Bill Pelzel in second, Jon Brand in third and Josh Luneberg in fourth.

The Sub-compact division had the most entries with 17 cars competing to be last vehicle running. Jeremy Lieder managed to be the last car running to take first. Second place went to Randy Scharfencamp, with Tyler Scharfencamp in third and Cole Haveldine in fourth.

The final heat of the night was Free For All among the last remaining cars. Brett Nelson finished first with Bill Pelzel in second and Digger Helget in third.