Four Madison Fathers Win Top Prize in Red Bull Chariot Race

More than 3,000 spectators packed Langdon Street on October 17 to watch 24 teams compete for the top prize in a unique motorized race. The event, which serves as the fifth stop on a nine-city national tour, pits head-to-head racers against each other in a series of elimination rounds. The atmosphere blended collegiate energy with community support, drawing prospective students, local residents, and visiting families to the course that began outside Memorial Union.

The winning entry, Fast and Fatherly, claimed the $1,500 cash prize and 60 cases of Red Bull. This group stands out because none of its four members are college students. Three of the competitors are new fathers, while the fourth identifies as a soon-to-be dad. Their vehicle was designed to resemble a baby crib and was decorated with their children's toys. Sam Peterson, who raced wearing a baby carrier with a doll inside, noted that the physical demand was greater than expected. His teammate Micah Palmer, who dressed as an infant, expressed a desire for their children to learn that one can humiliate oneself and still enjoy the moment. The fathers plan to use their winnings for a family vacation.

The competition format required teams to solve a Red Bull puzzle at the Lake Street turnaround point and switch positions before racing back. Judging criteria included chariot construction, creativity, and a pre-race skit. Each team received a $200 grant from Red Bull to cover building expenses. The second-place finisher, The Eagle Has Landed, performed a patriotic routine featuring a choreographed lift. Senior Joe Jaroski, who dressed as Uncle Sam, spent hours perfecting that move with fellow senior Erin Kelly. Teammate Matt Kleist described the experience as a memorable capstone for their senior year.

Grouchiator Maximus took third place, finishing ahead of Minion Mayos. The latter group brought a significant advantage in crowd noise, with approximately 30 supporters dressed as Minions cheering from the sidelines. Both runner-up teams received invitations to exclusive Red Bull sponsored events. For some participants, the victory was a surprise. Team Super Badgers, one of few all-freshman entries, was shocked when their application was accepted. Teammate Brennan Schumann explained that a friend submitted the entry and informed them of their selection the following day.

The judging panel included Aaron Colton, a professional motorcycle stunt performer and Red Bull athlete. Colton emphasized that creativity accounted for more than half of the final score. He also identified the puzzle as the great equalizer, noting that while some teams built their carts that morning, others had spent weeks on preparation. The other judges were Kayla Ruedebusch, a Madison based creator and foil athlete, and Jay Wanserski, owner of Wando's and Jay's Bar. Ruedebusch highlighted the creative elements as a key differentiator for this specific event.

The race was hosted by Jada Cerniglia, a UW-Madison volleyball alumna, and Milwaukee comedian Tommy Violet. Both made their debut hosting a Red Bull event. Colton had previously judged the competition in two other locations. The crowd included a mix of competitors' families and local alumni. One spectator, Tohnie, who is a UW-Madison graduate and former Langdon Street resident, expressed joy at returning to what she calls her home away from home.

The event highlights the broad appeal of the chariot race beyond the typical student demographic. By mixing professional athletes, local business owners, and community members, the competition maintains its status as a major fall tradition in Madison. The combination of engineering, performance, and head-to-head racing ensures a diverse field of competitors each year.