Trolley derby set for take off – Times

The wonderful Beachlands Maraetai Trolley Derby will be another big event if the past is anything to go by.

Pohutukawa Coast Rotary organises the popular trolley derby at Omana Regional Park.

Conceived in 2016 and after gaps in 2020 and 2022, the aim is to continue to make the trolley derby bigger and better.

The event draws racers from the local area and beyond, up to 50 at a time.

Those racing are aged from seven to adults with entries including sophisticated trolleys to the less so.

The event is popular with the public with lots of food and entertainment for the children, with spot prizes and T-shirts for participants.

Run in one of Auckland Council’s parks, the course winds through paddocks with breath-taking views of the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island and Rangitoto.

The event is open to everyone and trolleys can be entered in the following categories:

7 to 11: The trolley driver is between the ages of seven and 11 years of age on race day.
12 to 14: The trolley driver is between the ages of 12 and 14 years of age on race day.
15 and above: The trolley driver is at least 15 years of age on race day.

There are rules and requirements that govern the event.

“All trolleys are assessed to make sure they are safe. Whatever happens, we can guarantee you will have fun,” a Pohutukawa Coast Rotary organiser said.

“It will also be the only time you will be glad see a policeman with a radar gun pointing at you. The fastest speed clocked so far is 44 km/h.

“Although the emphasis is on safety, racers go at what speed they feel comfortable with, but beware of ‘Crash Corner’.”

Registrations close on February 16, 4pm.

For further information visit www.rotarytrolleyderby.co.nz.

If you want to be involved as a volunteer, sponsor or a competitor please contact rotarytrolleyderby@gmail.com.

Beachlands Maraetai Trolley Derby, Sunday, February 25, Omana Regional Park, 2 Omana Beach Road, Maraetai. Trolley Derby – 300 meters, starts at 8am. Price per participant, $45.