International Bathtub Races 2018 sees Bath Twp. Fire Department emerge as champion

Bath Township Fire Department wins with its bathtub racer in the final heat against the Bath Township Police Department.

Bathtubs careened through Bath’s Main Street at 26 miles per hour at Bath Days 2018. A rookie in a former champion bathtub machine took the crown this year for the Bath Township Fire Department, beating out the police in an emergency services final showdown.

16-year-old first place driver Korbin Dunham just received his driver's license last week, but led his team to victory with a tried and true racing tactic.

“I keep it straight,” said Dunham. “We only did one practice run last night.”

Driver Korbin Dunham and firefighter Mike Hawkins take home the grand prize at the International Bathtub Races

Firefighter Mike Hawkins said the team makes a few modifications each year, but keeps the bathtub racer close to original condition with its welded frame and bike part construction.

“We've always been able to beat the police with it,” said Hawkins. “This is our second win.”

Though there are some racers that employ bathtubs, the regulations are not so strict as to what is defined as one.

“It doesn't have to be an actual bathtub” said Hawkins. “One of the regulations is that it has to hold water. That's why we have a plastic cut out barrel.”

Despite losing in the final round, the Bath Police Department won best in show.

For more info, visit www.bathdays.com.