It was full speed ahead with only the odd crash at yesterday’s Trolley Derby.

About 70 trolley riders turned out for the event, organised by Whakatane Rotary Club in conjunction with Blue Light and the Menz Shed.

This was fewer than last year’s 150, but plenty to satisfy co-organisers Brigitte Hoskins and Mark MacIntosh.

“It could have been the school holidays or the weather, but everyone is still having a lot of fun,” Ms Hoskins said.

Toby Boswell scored the trophy for overall winner with his homemade trolley, built with the help of his cousin.

Ms Hoskins said this is the second year in a row Toby had attended with a homemade trolley, and this year he was faster than ever.

Starting with a 20-minute practice round, all competitors raced three heats before going into the semi-finals and the finals.

In the five- to seven-year-olds category, first place went to Fin Hilbink who travelled in from Rotorua for the race. Keely Henderson was second and Spencer Burns third.

In the 8- to 10-year-olds, Toby Boswell was the winner with Eddie Goodburn taking second and Kaiya Hanson in third.

Ayla Howson won the 11- to 14-year-olds ahead of Kayden Howsen and Xanthe Petersen who tied for second.

The MenzShed had constructed 10 trolleys for children to use, and some competitors made their own trolleys.

Blue Light loaned helmets to the event so everyone could participate safely.

A free sausage sizzle was sponsored by New World Whakatāne.