Snowplows and Checkered Flags Rule the Day at Dover Downs

Bay Oaks Group was proud to support the DeLea Founders Insurance Trust (DFIT) at its second annual Snowplow Road-EO on November 6th on the grounds of the famed Monster Mile at Dover International Raceway. DFIT is a workers' compensation group self-insurance trust serving Delaware municipalities. Over 40 drivers representing municipalities across the state competed in this one-day event emphasizing safe driving practices and precision vehicle control in preparation for the upcoming winter season.

Drivers were judged in CDL and Non-CDL categories as they navigated through 13 different course obstacle events designed to simulate real world situations like plowing along a curved roadway, backing into a loading dock, moving a snowbank and driving down a narrow, offset alleyway.

Although each driver was timed, the ones who scored highest were those with the fewest mistakes and not necessarily the fastest completion time underscoring the need to complete the job safely. And like any great teambuilding competition, contestants were able to showcase their skills while having some fun. 

Congratulations to all the drivers who participated in this year's Road-EO and a special acknowledgement to the winners in each of the two major categories:

CDL DIVISION

1st Place:            Gilbert Holt (Lewes)

2nd Place:          Justin Stone (Newark)

3rd Place:           Bryan Donahue (Newark)

NON-CDL DIVISION

1st Place:            Gilbert Holt (Lewes)

2nd Place:          Chris Chaney (Lewes)

3rd Place:           Kenny Morris (Lewes)

Of course like many other events held at Dover Downs, this one was not without some controversy. The best overall score and fastest course time posted for the day was turned in by Dick MacDonald (Kent County) but clearly, he took some liberties with the definition of "snowplow" with his entry. As a result, the events committee is considering including a separate category next year for ATVs and lawn equipment.

Lastly, events like this are only possible because of a considerable amount of time and effort from many different individuals including participating members, service providers and volunteers. Especially Scott Stohrer of PMA who organized the entire event, program administrator Terri Desanto of Strategic Insurance Partners, Matt Carter and his team from the Delaware T2/LTAP Center and my fellow volunteer judge and co-pilot for the day Debbie Moller.

If you are interested in seeing more pictures from this event or are interested in learning more about the safety and insurance programs available to Delaware public entities through the DFIT program, please visit their Safety Program Page on Facebook.