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Revved Up & Ready to Smash: Demolition Derby Unleashed

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Fenders Will Bend, Bumpers Will Break, and Engines Will Roar—Welcome to the Demolition Derby, Where Every Collision is a Clash for Glory and the Only Way to Win is to Wreck Your Rivals First!

March 15th, 2025

For those who have never witnessed a demolition derby live, the experience is nothing short of electrifying. At a recent event, we had the opportunity to sit down with Steve Cioppa, one of the event organizers from Iron City Promotions, to get an inside look at what goes into the spectacle of controlled chaos.

A Thrill Ride Like No Other

“You’re gonna witness total carnage,” Cioppa enthusiastically shared. The event featured three classes: small cars, the “Most Wanted” class (stripped-down street cars), and the big car class, which features higher-performance vehicles built for serious competition. While Florida has its share of demolition derbies, the sport thrives in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, and throughout the Midwest, where massive turnouts and intense competition are the norm.

From Hobbyists to Professionals

Most demolition derby drivers have been at it for years, developing a passion for the adrenaline-fueled collisions. The “Most Wanted” class was specifically introduced as a beginner-friendly category, allowing newcomers to ease into the sport without immediately jumping into high-intensity competition. Inspired by the derbies up north, this class was created to bring structure to the Florida scene, which previously mixed all vehicle types into the same heat.

Derby drivers often stumble upon their next competition car while out on the road. “You see a car that looks like it’s ready for a derby, you slam on the brakes, ask if they want to sell it, and then you get it for cheap, smash the windows out, and bring it to the derby,” Cioppa explained. The sport has levels ranging from local county fair derbies to national events featuring professional-level builds and 700-horsepower engines.

Requirements and Competitor Age Range

To enter a demolition derby, participants need a valid driver’s license. Minors under 18 require parental consent. The sport also features youth derbies, allowing kids as young as 11 to compete while being coached by a parent in the vehicle. On the other end of the spectrum, competitors well into their 60s continue to take part, proving that the derby passion has no age limit.

A High-Speed Addiction

For those considering getting behind the wheel, the warning is clear: “Don’t do it, because you’re going to be hooked!” Many who try the sport get addicted to the rush, while others find themselves overwhelmed after the first big hit. “You’re out there, pumping adrenaline, and once that first collision happens, it’s on!”

Safety and Inspection

Despite the chaotic nature of the event, safety is a top priority. Each car undergoes a rigorous inspection process to ensure that nothing hazardous protrudes from the vehicles and that fuel systems are secure. “We check everything—fuel cells, fuel lines—to make sure it’s safe for both the driver and competitors,” Cioppa explained.

Prizes and National Recognition

Competitors aren’t just smashing cars for fun—there’s prize money at stake. The big car class winner takes home $1,500, while the “Most Wanted” and small car winners each receive $1,000. Additionally, winning a qualifying event can open doors to bigger competitions. Florida’s own Billy Benoit recently secured a spot in the prestigious Wheel Man Nationals in South Dakota, where he will compete for a grand prize of $50,000.

The Future of Demolition Derby

As the sport continues to grow, organizers encourage fans to attend local derbies and support county fairs. “It’s the best adrenaline rush you’ll ever experience, even as a fan. When the derby starts, everyone’s on their feet,” Cioppa said.

So, if you’ve ever considered entering a demolition derby or simply want to witness the mayhem firsthand, find an event near you and prepare for an unforgettable experience of roaring engines, crunching metal, and pure excitement.

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©, South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

  • Demolition Derby. ©,South Florida Insider

Coach is South Florida Insider's Owner, President, Webmaster, as well as a Reporter and Photographer covering events all over the world. Born in West Palm Beach, Coach continues to call the sunny Florida area home. He received his Associate degree from the University of South Florida, then transferred to the University of Florida where he received a Bachelor’s of Arts in Journalism & Communications. During his journalistic career, which has been featured in local newspapers and magazines as well as national publications, Coach has also continued his love of being an educator. It’s through both endeavors that he’s actively got students interested in following in the field of journalism. Coach loves sharing the world of entertainment with others and giving people the opportunity to step out of the everyday life.

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A Real-Life Winter Wonderland Melts Hearts in Palm Beach County

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Snow Laughing Matter: This Holiday Wonderland Proves That Family Fun and Festive Surprises Never Melt Away. (more…)

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Luli Fama Turns Dadeland Mall Into a Tropical Playground With Its VIP Grand Opening

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Champagne, bold bikinis, glowing colors, and a whole lot of Luli Babe confidence


November 7, 2025

Luli Fama just opened its newest boutique at Dadeland Mall and the VIP launch felt like a tropical celebration. From the moment guests arrived, the energy was bright, bubbly, and pure Miami. Champagne was poured all night, the small bites were delicious, and gift bags were waiting at the door to send everyone home smiling.

The boutique itself is stunning. Every rack bursts with tropical color. Bikinis shimmer in sunset shades. Resort sets float on the hangers like they are already dreaming of a beach vacation. It is one of those stores that you can wander through forever because each piece feels fresh, playful, and ready for your next escape.

Luli Fama is a Latin owned brand loved worldwide for its flattering fit and vibrant, confident style. Their motto, “celebrating a passionate lifestyle one bikini at a time,” came to life in every corner of the boutique. Guests tried on pieces that made them feel strong, sexy, and ready for summer at any moment of the year.

The brand’s focus on fit is what makes it stand out. With more than 30 years of experience, Luli Fama has perfected patterns for many different body types. They know how to blend comfort, support, and style into one look. That kind of precision comes from their unique production process.

Luli Fama is the only designer swim brand with its own in house production team in Colombia, and their factory is a huge point of pride. Many of the artisans who sew, cut, and assemble each piece are women who have built long, stable careers with the company. The brand is dedicated to providing high quality jobs, skill development, and a safe, supportive workplace for its team. It is a place where craftsmanship is treated with respect and where women can support their families through steady, dignified work. Every bikini, every resort set, every gold plated detail is handmade by people who truly know their craft.

That craftsmanship was easy to feel at the event. The European fabrics were soft and luxurious. The hardware sparkled. The finishes were flawless. Even guests who were just browsing could tell the pieces were made with care, not mass produced in a rush.

Throughout the night, the Luli team brought incredible warmth. They helped guests find their perfect fits, shared styling tips, and created a friendly, festive atmosphere. The grand opening felt less like a store launch and more like a celebration of women, color, culture, and confidence.

Luli Fama’s newest boutique is officially open at Dadeland Mall, 7535 N Kendall Dr, Miami, FL 33156, right by the Apple Store and a couple doors down from Pura Vida. If you love bold swimwear, glowing prints, and beautifully crafted pieces that make you feel amazing, this spot needs to be on your list.

@brightshotsbybri

Follow Luli Fama

Website: https://lulifama.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/lulifamaswimwear
Facebook: https://facebook.com/LuliFama

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FLIBS 2025: Highlights, Superyachts and a Glimpse at the Future

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The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show 2025 is Off the Hook and On the Radar with Luxury, Adventure and Hands-On Experiences.

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Google Opens First Retail Store in South Florida at Aventura Mall

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Google Brings Its Tech Closer to the Community with the Launch of Google Store Aventura—Its First Florida Location and a Hub for Innovation, Support, and Multilingual Service. (more…)

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Wynwood Art Walk and Fashion Night Out

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From live murals to fashion fueled pop ups this Art Walk is wild colorful and absolutely not a stay at home night


November 6, 2025

Wynwood is gearing up for another huge Art Walk, and this time it comes with a fashion twist. On Saturday, November 8, from noon to ten, the neighborhood turns into a giant open-air celebration of art, music, and style. If you love wandering into galleries you have never heard of or discovering an artist painting a mural in the middle of the street, this is one of those days when Wynwood feels completely alive.

This month, Art Walk is teaming up with Fashion Night Out, which means more energy, more creative people, and a whole lot more to see. Fashion Night Out is a ticketed experience with panels, live music, and cocktails, while the regular Art Walk remains totally free and open to anyone who wants to explore. It is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of day, and both vibes fit right into Wynwood’s colourful personality.

The whole district is putting on a show. You can walk a single block and bump into a new exhibition a fashion pop up or an artist painting right in front of you. It is the kind of event where you will probably arrive planning to stay for an hour, and then suddenly it is sunset and you are still wandering around with a cafecito in hand.

There are tons of spots to check out but here are a few highlights you can easily wander between throughout the afternoon

Wynwood Walls is free and has a DJ and a bar so it is always a good starting point. Wyn317 is hosting a solo show by Louiedology. The Museum of Graffiti has live spray painting and a video premier with X SQUARE O which sounds very Miami in the best way. Goldman Global Arts is unveiling two new exhibitions. ARTXSPACE Paradox Museum and Fun Dimension are offering discounted admission so if you have ever wanted to try those immersive shows this is your chance.

As the sun goes down the live artists take over. Diana Didi will be at Panther Coffee from five to eight. Ivan Roque will be at Pitusa and Luis Ville will be at Society Wynwood during the same hours. The whole district feels like a walking gallery with music drifting from every corner.

Expect a lot of people a lot of art and a lot of personality. The mix of designers muralists street performers and fashion lovers makes this one of the most entertaining Art Walks of the year. Whether you are coming for the galleries or you simply want to get lost in Wynwood for a few hours it is a great night to do it.

Event details

  • Saturday November 8
  • Noon to ten
  • Art Walk is free
  • Fashion Night Out requires a ticket so get one HERE

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Touchdowns and Taste Buds at the Palm Beach Kennel Club

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Feast and Football Sundays at The Paddock: Where Every Bite’s a Touchdown (Even If Your Team Fumbles). (more…)

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Yesteryear Village Hosts a Spooky Adult Celebration

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