JOYCE — Crowds cheered as “Turbo the Slug” took the Triple Crown of Joyce Daze Slug Racing, winning all three heats in the annual extreme slug racing event Saturday.
The event, which was canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, raised a record $801 in donations to Clallam County Fire District No. 4 in Joyce.
“We had our biggest crowd and fastest times ever,” said organizer Sam Nugent. “With the first race completed in just under 12 minutes.”
Fifteen slugs vied for glory in each of three races held after the parade.
Two walk-up entries dominated the field, as Turbo and Gary went tentacle to tentacle to the finish line in all three races.
For the first time, a snail — Billy the Skid — was allowed as a contestant, wowing race-goers with an impressive second place in the first heat.
This year’s event was sponsored by The Family Kitchen in Joyce, Fogtown Coffee Bar, Bedford’s Sodas and Wilder Auto.
More than $200 in prizes were donated by sponsors and were given away in drawings during the event, including gift cards to Swains General Store, Seahawks gear, Fogtown coffee and more.
Organizers dedicated the race in memory of Dan Wilder Sr., a long-time fan and supporter of the races, after his sudden passing in July.
Race results:
Race No. 1 — Turbo (win), Billy the Skid (place), Gary (show).
Race No. 2 — Turbo (win), Gary (place), Billy the Skid (show).
Race No. 3 — Turbo (win), Wet Willie (place), Gary (show).
