The Crossroads of Destruction demolition derby in Albert Lea last spring was voted No. 7 in a list of Top 10 Demolition Derby Events in the World for 2015. 

The Demolition Derby League announced the recognition this week after voting took place in December. The annual award is presented to the combative motorsport event that most captures the “thrill, excitement and sportsmanship associated with the world of demolition derby,” according to a news release.

“For Albert Lea, I think it’s great,” said Paul Nielsen, who organizes the local derby with Matt Ertman of Blue Earth.

The Crossroads of Destruction event in Albert Lea started three years ago and last year had 124 participants, Nielsen said. The event is the largest-paying derby in Minnesota — last year paying out $27,000.

This year’s event is slated for May 6 and 7.

“I thank everyone for the support,” he said. “It wouldn’t be if it wasn’t for the people who supported us — the sponsors and the people who come watch us.”

According to the release, there were 427 events in 15 countries nominated for the recognition, and more than 10,000 people voted for the winner.

“Derby fanatics from around the globe have had their say, and this year’s top 10 is truly the best of the best,” said Dudley Disastro, commissioner of the Demolition Derby League. “We’re proud that there continues to be an enthusiastic and growing fan base for combative motorsports.”

The No. 1 derby was the Fall Brawl in Lindsay, Ontario, Canada.

Nielsen said he was proud that two events from Minnesota were included in the top 10. The other derby in Minnesota was the Winter Slam in Garden City, which ranked No. 4.

 

Top 10 Demolition Derby Events in the World for 2015

1. Fall Brawl, Lindsay, Ontario, Canada

2. Blizzard Bash, Topeka, Kansas

3. Bash for Cash, Washington Court House, Ohio

4. Winter Slam, Garden City

5. Metal Mayhem, Pecatonica, Illinois

6. Wicked Team Show, Sturgis, Kentucky

7. Crossroads of Destruction, Albert Lea

8. Redneck Rumble, Sturgis, Kentucky

9. T Bone Memorial, Oskaloosa, Iowa

10. Drive for 5, Elkhorn, Wisconsin