The first Coffin Cup took place in Crown Point, offering a unique combination of competition and charity. Geisen Funeral Home emerged as a standout participant. They sprinted their ‘Corpse Bride’ coffin 100 yards on Main Street with a ghostly driver. Their efforts earned them $2,500 for Golden Hope Ministries. Their creativity and costumes also won them the Spirited Award and an additional $500.
Crowds gathered downtown for this lively event, co-sponsored by First United Methodist Church. Church member Jean Lahm crafted the winning racer, aided by a team of local athletes and friends. The event successfully engaged the community, as noted by PACE Director Adam Draper. He estimated around 1,000 people enjoyed the festive atmosphere.
The Crown Point PACE team, while not the fastest, embraced the fun. They received ‘Dead Last’ honors but celebrated the event’s success in showcasing Historic Court House Square.
The Coffin Cup coincided with the annual Pumpkin Walk, attracting many young spectators in costume. Participants were required to build their own coffin racers. The competition’s rules also encouraged teams to support nonprofit organizations. Local businesses and organizations, including Geisen, co-sponsored the event.
Mayor Pete Land announced Geisen Funeral Home as the champion, praising all 11 teams for their enthusiasm. Entries like ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’ brought humor, although their chainmail costumes may have slowed them. Rick Monroe expressed plans for a ‘Cool Runnings’ themed entry next year.
Super Mario Bros. enthusiasts added a classic gaming twist. Kyle Sokowicz from Cedar Lake explained how his team incorporated Mario elements into their racer. Meanwhile, attendees like Crown Point’s Barbara Chrusciel enjoyed the vibrant event, dressing up as Snow White’s evil queen and handing out ‘poison’ apples.
Jim Masters is a freelance reporter covering the event for the Post-Tribune, capturing the excitement and community spirit that defined the inaugural Crown Point Coffin Cup.
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