Four Local Fathers Win Red Bull Chariot Race in Madison

Four local fathers have claimed the top prize at the Red Bull Chariot Race, defeating 23 other teams in a high-energy competition held on Langdon Street.

The winning group, Fast and Fatherly, took home $1,500 and 60 cases of Red Bull after crossing the finish line first. Their victory stands out because none of the members are college students. Three of the four men are new parents, while the fourth describes himself as a soon-to-be dad. Their vehicle was designed to resemble a baby crib and adorned with their children's toys. Sam Peterson, who competed wearing a baby carrier with a doll inside, noted that the race was much harder than expected. His teammate Micah Palmer, who dressed as a baby, said he hopes their kids learn that you can humiliate yourself and still have a good time. The group plans to use their winnings for a family vacation.

The event featured 24 teams divided into 12 head-to-head races that started outside Memorial Union. Competitors had to navigate a course that included a turnaround at Lake Street where they solved a Red Bull Puzzle and switched positions. Judging was based on speed, chariot construction, creativity, and a pre-race skit. Red Bull provided each team with $200 to help cover building costs. The crowd, which included more than 3,000 spectators, watched the UW-Madison students and community members battle it out.

The team Eagle Has Landed finished in second place following a patriotic skit that featured a choreographed lift. Joe Jaroski, a senior on the Wisconsin cheer team who dressed as Uncle Sam, spent hours preparing the maneuver with fellow senior Erin Kelly. Matt Kleist, another member, said the race provided a memorable experience for their final year. Grouchiator Maximus took third place, edging out Minion Mayos. The Minion Mayos team had about 30 supporters dressed as Minions cheering from the sidelines. Both runners-up will receive unique Red Bull sponsored events.

Aaron Colton, a professional motorcycle stunt performer and Red Bull athlete, served as one of three judges for the day. He explained that creativity accounted for more than half of the scoring. Colton noted that while some teams built their carts that morning, others had worked on them for weeks. He also identified the puzzle as the great equalizer in the competition. Kayla Ruedebusch, a Madison based creator and professional foil athlete, and Jay Wanserski, owner of Wando's and Jay's Bar, joined him on the judging panel. Ruedebusch stated that the show and creative elements made this race distinct from others.

Several teams were making their debut at the event. Team Super Badgers, one of the few all freshman entries, was surprised to learn their application had been accepted. Brennan Schumann said a friend filled out the form for them and informed them of their selection the next day. The crowd included friends, family, prospective students, and local residents. Tohnie, a UW-Madison alum who previously lived on Langdon Street, expressed joy at returning to what she calls her home away from home.

Madison marked the fifth stop on Red Bull's nine stop chariot race tour, which typically visits college towns. Jada Cerniglia, a UW-Madison volleyball alumna, and Milwaukee comedian Tommy Violet hosted the event for the first time. Colton had previously judged the race in two other locations. The atmosphere remained lively as the community gathered to watch the unique blend of speed and creativity on display.