General Event Rules:

1. Registration deadline is Friday, June 20, 2025, end of day.

2. Participants must be 6 years of age or older on June 28th, 2025 (proof of age required) to participate as a driver.

3. Participants must be present at the race location on June 28, 2025 and remain at the starting location until their races are complete.

4. Participants must be present at 9:00AM on Saturday June 28th for the pre-inspection. Vehicles not meeting the Construction and Safety guidelines will not be permitted to enter the race.

5. Soapbox cars must meet vehicle construction and safety guidelines as described herein.

6. Soapbox cars may be inspected prior to race time to ensure safety of all participants. If your car is deemed unsafe, you will be unable to complete the race and will be disqualified.

7. ​Participants will be required to wear a CSA certified properly fitted helmets with a chin strap (motorcycle, hockey, bicycle, snowmobile) and closed toed shoes.

8. By virtue of their registration, participants, or the parents/guardians of participants who are minors, have agreed to render harmless the Municipality of Mapleton, Drayton Rotary Club, car inspection volunteers, and race volunteers of any consequences arising from participation in the soapbox derby.

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Soapbox Derby racing is a distinctive form of gravity racing where propulsion is solely powered by gravity. It emphasizes design ingenuity and teamwork, excluding the use of motors and engines to maintain the pure essence of the competition. This unique racing experience offers an exhilarating competition driven solely by the laws of physics.

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Vehicle Construction and Safety Rules:

1. Ramp starting will be used, you must build your car so that it conforms to the minimum and maximum dimensions listed in the Construction Guidelines.

2. Proof of age will be necessary, and must be shown to the scrutinizers when your vehicle is inspected. All participants must be at minimum six (6) years old on derby day. It is recommended that each entrant build his/her own soap box, or participate in its construction.

3. All participants will be required to demonstrate their ability to safely steer and stop the car.

4. Your car will be issued an officially approved sticker after it has passed inspection. No alterations to your car will be allowed after the sticker is issued.

5. In all cases where a decision is required, the Race Judge’s decision will be made. If this does not resolve any issue, then the Grand Race Marshall will be asked to decide and that will be final.

6. It is expected that all drivers and people in their pit crew will act in a sportsmanlike manner at all times. Anyone who does not uphold the requests of the Race Officials may be expelled from the race.

7. There will be Race Officials along the race course to ensure participants stay within their lanes and to ensure that fair racing is maintained.

8. Any racer who leaves their lane will be issued a warning with a second infraction leading to the racer being disqualified. If the racer leaves their lane and collides with another racer they will be immediately disqualified from further racing.

9. There will be two Starting Officials to ensure fair starts.

10. There will be two Race Officials at the finish-line; the first car to cross the finish line will win the heat.

11. Cars will be returned after each race to the staging and pit area.

12. Drivers and cars must be ready to race when their name is called.

13. If your car needs repair during the races and you are called upon to race, you will be given one run’s grace (or about ten minutes). You must be ready when your number is called for a second time however, or you will be eliminated. This action must be taken as to not slow the race schedule.

14. If an odd number of cars are left to race, the odd car will be entered into the last race in that particular round.

15. Any further instructions will be made on race day at the drivers meeting prior to race time.

 

On race day, the Grand Race Marshall has the authority to reject and eliminate from the race any vehicle which he believes is unsafe, or does not conform to the specifications.

 

Entries may be disqualified for unsportsmanlike behavior of driver or pit crew.

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Final Inspection on Race Day:

 Alterations as determined at safety pre-inspection and qualification must be completed for inspection and approval on the day of the race in order to qualify.

The driver of the soap box must be in attendance of the safety, inspection and qualification, at which time the following will be confirmed.

 

Safety, inspection and qualification of the vehicle - Inspector will check the following:

• Proof of age of the driver

• Proper fitting of helmet

• Weight of driver and car (must not exceed 200 lbs.)

• Inspection of the vehicle so that it conforms to all the rules and regulations.

• Brakes (a test of the brakes will be performed)

• Steering (a test of steering movement and free play will be conducted)

• Strength of the frame

• Fastening and securing of the axles and wheels

• No sharp edges or objects

• NO ALTERATIONS to wheels or bearings will be allowed, including excess use of oil

 

Any car that does not comply will have to be altered prior to race time and inspected again or the car WILL NOT be allowed to participate in the race.

Notes:

1.            Changes to cars: Absolutely no changes may be made to any car once it has been inspected and received the approval sticker, necessary repairs exempted.

 

Anyone found making changes to their car during the course of the race will be automatically disqualified and eliminated from the remainder of the race. This shall include but not be limited to the following:

 

A. Removal of, or addition to, weight of the car – ex. Sandbagging.

 

B. Removal of, or modification to, body panels or structure of the car.

 

C. Changing to a second set of wheels.

In the event of damage to a car, for example where the driver hits a curb, repairs can be made (to the extent that as little work as necessary is done to allow the car to continue racing) and it must pass safety inspection before continuing.

 

2.            Conduct: We would appreciate both drivers and pit crew, including parents, to act in a sportsmanlike manner at all times. Race Officials will attempt to make sure that vehicles are running according to regulation and that all races are run in a fair manner. Race Officials’ decisions are final. Race Officials have the right to disqualify driver, vehicle or pit crew at any time for inappropriate behavior.

 

 

Car Specifications

 

Construction:

Soapbox cars can be homemade of original design or from a kit. New and used cars of any age are welcome. Any use of materials is welcome but must be strong impact resistant, and secure. The car should be built to last the entire day of racing without breakdowns or repairs.

 

– Frame must be secure, along with axels and wheels. NO suspension allowed.

– Driver position must have feet forward, and an upright seating position.

– Car must not protrude past the starting gate.

– Maximum overhang from axles to front and rear of car does not exceed 14 inches (35.56 cm)

 

Wheels:

– Must have 4 wheels.

– Wheels can be different sizes, but adjacent/parallel wheels must be the same diameter (e.g., rear wheels 13” (33.02 cm) and front 8” (20.32 cm).

– Minimum diameter of 8 inches (20.32 cm).

– Maximum diameter of 13 inches (33.02 cm).

– Maximum width of 6 inches (152.4 mm).

–Wheels must not exceed the front or rear bodyline of the car.

 

Ground Clearance:

– Minimum Ground Clearance of 3.5″ (8.89 cm) to allow smooth clearance over ramps and equipment during the race.

– Maximum Ground Clearance of 6″ (15.24 cm) to facilitate the smooth operation of the starting gate, ensuring secure car holding and efficient car release from the starting line. This specified height not only contributes to the effectiveness of the starting gate but also maintains a lower center of gravity, thereby minimizing the likelihood of rollovers and elevating the overall safety standards of the race.

 

Brake:

– Functioning hand or foot controlled brake is required; no use of the drivers foot on the pavement or tire to stop the car.

– Soapbox must have an effective braking system without losing control of the vehicle in a quick and safe manner.

– Brake pads must not have fastening hardware protruding on the friction/contacting surface that will cause any damage to the racing surface.

 

Steering:

– Steering wheel, bars, or yokes design will be allowed.

– Use of steering limiters is strongly suggested.

– Steering systems must be tight with minimal free play in the mechanism.

– Rope (“Horse Reins”) and aviation joysticks will not be allowed.

– Rear wheel steering will not be allowed.

– Steering wheels must not rub on any body part while turning

– Steering stops are recommended to limit tire movement to 1 inch (2.54 cm) of movement from the center position on a bar axle. Increased steering movement increases the risk of a crash.

 

Enclosures and Hatches:

– Enclosures and hatches must be operable for the driver to easily open without assistance.

– Enclosures and hatches must not enclose the drivers head. This is to ensure that drivers can hear instructions from race officials as well as exit the car quickly in an emergency.

– No open-bottom cars will be allowed. This rule has been established with the primary concern of ensuring the safety of participants by emphasizing the need for a floorboard. This precaution is crucial to prevent any situation where a foot or leg could fall and be at risk of getting run over.

 

Turnbuckles and Fasteners:

– To ensure safety, secure turnbuckles using safety wire, jam nuts, or an equivalent method to prevent unintended disassembly during the race. Fasteners should utilize the following: lock washers, aviation washers, Nord-Lock washers, lock nuts, jam nuts, cotter pins, or safety wires. These comprehensive measures are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the components throughout the racing event.

 

Race Numbers:

– Racers can choose their own race numbers.

– It is recommended that racing numbers have a minimal height of 4″ (10.16 cm) to ensure visibility for judges and onlookers from a distance.

– In the event of a recurring number on race day, it will be given to the first car registered, and any duplicated numbers will have a number or letter added. (eg: #10 becomes 101)

– It is recommended to display the numbers on both the left and right sides of the car to enhance visibility from various angles, ensuring efficient identification

 

Safety Equipment:

 

Helmets:

– Helmets are mandatory (e.g., Bicycle, Motocross, Snowmobile, or Hockey).

– Must have a functional chin strap.

 

Gloves, Suits, and Goggles:

– Not required, but if used, they should not impair the driver’s ability to turn, stop, or see.

– If a car does not have a protective body, it is not mandatory, but it is strongly suggested that a long-sleeve shirt and pants be worn in the event of a crash for added protection to the driver’s skin.

 

Shoes:

In accordance with safety standards, specific guidelines regarding footwear are as follows:

 

Enclosures:

Cars must not fully enclose the driver with a canopy.

 

For Cars without Enclosures:

– Closed-toe shoes are mandatory for participants if the foot and leg area of the soapbox derby cars is open.

 

For Cars with Enclosed Driver Compartments:

– While not mandatory, it is strongly suggested for participants to wear closed-toe shoes.

– If not using closed-toe shoes, participants must take safety into consideration, especially regarding pinch points and sharp objects within the enclosed driver compartment.

 

Footwear Removal:

– If participants choose to remove their shoes, it is prohibited to leave them at the starting ramp.

– Participants should either secure shoes within the car if space allows or avoid bringing them to the top of the ramp during the event.

– To streamline the process, parents, guardian or team members are encouraged to bring removed shoes to the finish area for participants.

 

Inspection and Disqualification:

After the completion of the registration process and parental/guardian waivers, the car inspection will take place. Following the inspection, any vehicles found to be unsafe will have the option to undergo necessary repairs or modifications. Failure to address safety concerns within the specified timeframe will result in disqualification from the race. Adjustments are restricted to weight placement and tire pressure for pneumatic tires. It is recommended to initially weigh in at the maximum allowed weight 200 lbs (90.72 kg), allowing for the removal of weight while ensuring compliance with the specified weight guidelines. If steering or brake adjustments are to be made, please inform an official beforehand. This is to ensure compliance and eliminate any assumptions or accusations from other competitors. Any modifications or adjustments are only permitted during the two-lane practice runs, as once the qualifying round starts, any further alterations will be considered a violation.

 

Competitor Guidance

Competitors, especially those in the younger age groups, may benefit from the support and guidance of a caregiver, parent, guardian, older sibling, friend, or teammate. The involvement of a responsible individual is crucial for ensuring a smooth and enjoyable racing experience for everyone. Here are the recommended roles and responsibilities for caregivers or supporters:

 

Staging Assistance:

Caregivers or supporters are encouraged to assist competitors during the staging process, ensuring that the soapbox car is positioned correctly and that all safety equipment is properly secured.

 

Car Removal at the Finish Line:

After completing a race, caregivers or supporters should assist with removing the soapbox car and assist the driver in exiting the vehicle from the finish area to allow for the smooth progression of the event.

 

Returning to the Starting Line:

Assist competitors in returning to the starting line for subsequent runs, providing any necessary support.

These guidelines aim to enhance the overall experience for competitors, promote safety, and maintain the efficient flow of the soapbox derby races. The presence of a supportive caregiver or companion is instrumental in creating a memorable and enjoyable racing environment for all participants.

 

Summary of Specifications:

– Length Overall: Maximum 84” (2,133.6 mm).

– Height must not exceed 32” (812.8 mm).

– Width must not exceed 36” (914.4 mm).

– Ground Clearance: Minimum 3.5” (88.9 mm).

– Ground Clearance: Maximum 6” (152.4 mm).

– Axle Width (Front & Rear): Maximum 36” (914.4 mm).

– Protrusion of Axle beyond Wheel Hub: Maximum 1” (25.4 mm).

– Wheelbase (Front Axle to Axle): Minimum 40” (121.92 cm).

– Weight Limit: The weight of the car, including the driver, must not exceed 200 lbs (90.72 kg).

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For more information  – draytonrotaryclub@gmail.com