Demolition derby set to start Moses Lake Roundup

MOSES LAKE — Josiah Guerra is no stranger to the bright lights.

The standout wrestler out of Warden was a state runner-up at Mat Classic XXVIII in the 132-pound weight class. Guerra would use his quickness to circle the mat and look for an opportunity to shoot for a take-down.

Wednesday, Guerra will be competing in a different arena in a different circle, well, more like an oval.

The Moses Lake Demolition Derby on Wednesday night begins the four-day Moses Lake Roundup.

Guerra will be racing for the third time, something he became interested in after seeing his older brother compete.

“What I’m most looking forward to at this year’s Grant County derby is running my newly built car as well as being able to race along side many of my friends and family that also have cars,” he said.

Guerra’s ride is a 2001 Acura CL, No. 26 for those following from the stands. Guerra is set to line up in the heat races and the Australian Pursuit.

“I have a couple goals for the derby,” he said. “Be one of the fastest cars on the track, be one of the best looking cars and go home with a couple first-place finishes.”

Other events include the trophy dash, UTV and powderpuff races.

The team aspect from last year’s grand finale demolition derby will continue at this year’s event. Seth Dompier came out on top in 2016, with Michael Koon and Adam Roberson finished second and third, respectively.

The gates are scheduled to open at 3:30 p.m. with time trials beginning at 6:30 p.m. and heat races at 7:30 p.m.; the destruction derby typically gets going around 10:30 p.m.

Guerra and the rest of the participants are ready to entertain a capacity crowd.

“Racing in front of a packed arena is such an awesome experience because you’re the one putting on the show for the crowd,” he said. “It’s something that will always give me an adrenaline rush and bring my joy.”