Turtle Race- An Update

So the turtle race is over and done. I have to say, it was much different than I expected. I was thinking a race of about 15-20 turtles, with  a start and finish line and some laughs. Then I learned that around these parts we take our turtle racing very seriously.  I now know: 

• Turtle races in these parts command upwards of 86+ turtles (yeah, that's right)

• There are actual  heats  for the turtle races, in which 10 turtles race at a time

• In order to bring order to a turtle race with 86 turtles and over 300 spectators, one must call in the fire department, who announces heats over the loudspeaker. 

• You do not have to bring your own turtle. Someone had a nice side  business going selling turtles for $5 each. 

The comparing and registering of turtles began over an hour before the race, with children and adults alike comparing the competition. I am happy to say E-dog won 3rd place in his heat, with turtle #6! Go E! 

That was not even the most exciting part for him. It has been a dream of his (for the last month) to find and own his own baby turtle. Today, it came true. A family who found a baby turtle to enter in the race gave E the baby after the race. He was beyond  excited. As are his father and I who were going nuts listening to him beg for a baby turtle. 

This evening we went to the Chisago County Fair in Rush City. It was fun to see several of my former and upcoming students, as well as several co-workers. My dad shared the interesting (but not surprising) tidbit that Pine County Fair goes through more kegs of beer than any other fair in the state, including the State Fair. Go share that at your next dinner party. 

I'm off... The boys and I are going to motorcycle Sunday tomorrow.