Manitou Springs is holding it's much anticipated annual "Emma Crawford Coffin Races" this Saturday, October 24th. The Manitou Springs Chamber of Commerce describes the celebration as, "each year more than 10,000 people come to Manitou Springs for the fun and festive Coffin Races, where teams of five, one Emma and four runners, push their coffins 195 feet to the finish line."
(Photo Courtesy of ManitouSprings.org)
The tradition stems from the 1912 history of a young woman, Emma Crawford who's coffin was washed down hill in Manitou Springs due to erosion, harsh weather, and a rain storm. This 2015 marks 21 years of "intentional" coffin racing for the charming town, and it is expected to be better than ever with more teams, more costumes, and more fun.
Beginning at 12:00 pm, teams will parade the avenue prior to the race, along with authentic hearses for show. Racing will take place in separate heats, and the best finish time wins. Prizes for fastest times, Best Emma, Best Entourage, and Best Coffin are awarded at the end.
This year, the Manitou Springs Chambers of Commerce has arranged for FREE shuttles in effort to minimize traffic and parking trouble. Free parking lots available are Rock Ledge Ranch, Fields Park, and Manitou Springs High School. Paid Parking lots will be at The Dillon Motel, Roadway Inn, and Shriners Club. For directions visit manitousprings.org.
Whether you are on a team or just going to see just what this is it is a fun day for all.
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