Four New Dads Beat Students to Win Red Bull Chariot Race

Four men from Madison claimed the top prize at the Red Bull Chariot Race on Oct. 17 by outperforming 23 other teams before a crowd of over 3,000 on Langdon Street. The group, named Fast and Fatherly, secured the $1,500 cash prize and 60 cases of energy drinks. Their victory is notable because none of the members were college students, a distinction that set them apart from the predominantly academic field.

The team's background reflects a shift in the event's demographic, as three members are new fathers and the fourth is expecting a child soon. Their chariot was designed to resemble a baby crib and adorned with their children's toys. Sam Peterson, who competed in a baby carrier holding a doll, described the physical toll of the competition. Teammate Micah Palmer, who dressed as an infant, stated that he hopes their children learn that self-humiliation can still be enjoyable. The group plans to use their winnings for a family vacation.

The event structure required 24 teams to compete in 12 head-to-head races starting near Memorial Union. Competitors had to navigate a turnaround at Lake Street where they solved a Red Bull puzzle and switched positions before racing back. Judging criteria included chariot construction, creativity, and a pre-race skit. Red Bull provided each team with $200 to offset building costs.

Second place went to The Eagle Has Landed, which performed a patriotic skit featuring a choreographed lift. Senior Joe Jaroski, a member of the Wisconsin cheer team, spent hours preparing the maneuver with Erin Kelly. Matt Kleist noted that the race provided a memorable experience for their final year. Grouchiator Maximus took third place, finishing ahead of Minion Mayos, whose supporters included approximately 30 people dressed as minions.

Aaron Colton, a professional motorcycle stunt performer and Red Bull athlete, served as one of three judges. He emphasized that creativity accounted for more than half of the score, acknowledging that some teams built their carts just hours before the race. Colton also identified the puzzle as a great equalizer. The other judges were Kayla Ruedebusch, a Madison-based foil athlete and creator, and Jay Wanserski, who owns Wando's and Jay's Bar. Ruedebusch highlighted that the show and creative elements distinguished this race from others.

Madison was the fifth of nine stops on the Red Bull tour, which typically targets 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 two other locations. The audience included prospective students, residents, and alumni. Tohnie, a former Langdon Street resident, expressed joy at returning to what he considers his home away from home.

The participation of groups like Team Super Badgers, an all-freshman entry, demonstrated the event's appeal to newer students. Brennan Schumann revealed that his team was surprised to be accepted after a friend submitted their application. This mix of experienced and first-time competitors contributed to the variety of entries and the overall spectacle of the day.