Fast and Fatherly Wins $1,500 at Red Bull Chariot Race
A non-student team built a crib-style cart to defeat 23 rivals in Madison's Langdon Street event.
By Alina Carter ·
The Red Bull Chariot Race concluded on Oct. 17 on Langdon Street in Madison, drawing a crowd of more than 3,000 spectators. The event served as the fifth stop on a nine-stop tour that visits college towns.
A team known as "Fast and Fatherly" claimed the top prize of $1,500 and 60 cases of Red Bull. The group consists of four local men who met through a church group, and none were college students. Three members are new fathers, while the fourth described himself as a soon-to-be dad. Their vehicle was designed to resemble a baby crib and decorated with children's toys.
The competition format paired 24 teams into 12 head-to-head races starting near Memorial Union. Racers completed a lap that included a turnaround at Lake Street, where they solved a puzzle and switched positions before returning. Judges evaluated teams on chariot construction, creativity, and a pre-race skit. Red Bull provided each team with $200 to cover building costs.
Sam Peterson, a team member who raced in a baby carrier holding a doll, noted that the event was harder than expected. Teammate Micah Palmer, who dressed as a baby, said they hope their children learn that self-humiliation can still be enjoyable. The three fathers stated they intend to use the cash prize for a family vacation.
"The Eagle Has Landed" finished second following a patriotic skit that featured a choreographed lift. Joe Jaroski, a senior and Wisconsin cheer team member, spent hours preparing the routine with fellow senior Erin Kelly. Matt Kleist described the race as a memorable senior year experience. "Grouchiator Maximus" took third place, edging out "Minion Mayos," whose supporters included about 30 people dressed as Minions.
Judging was led by Aaron Colton, a professional motorcycle stunt performer, alongside Kayla Ruedebusch, a foil athlete, and Jay Wanserski, a bar owner. Colton explained that creativity accounted for more than half of the scoring and called the puzzle the great equalizer. Ruedebusch emphasized that the show elements distinguished this race from others.
Newcomers like "Team Super Badgers" were surprised by their selection, with teammate Brennan Schumann noting a friend submitted their application. The race was hosted by Jada Cerniglia and Tommy Violet, both making their first appearances at a Red Bull event.
