Getting Started

What are the goals of the Soap Box Derby?

The goals of the Soap Box Derby program have not changed since it began in 1934: to promote families working together, to teach children some basic skills of workmanship along with the spirit of competition and the perseverance to continue a project to completion. Across the United States and around the world, family time is spent together building Soap Box Derby cars. Lifelong bonds are developed as the "Derby Experience" is shared from driver to driver, town to town, state to state. The Soap Box Derby is a program that will provide cherished memories that will be enjoy for a lifetime, by kids of all ages.

Where Do I Begin?

1. Are you Eligible? Anyone between 8 and 17 years of age, living in Culpeper, or surrounding area, is eligible to participate. You must enter the Local Derby closest to your home. To locate the nearest derby to you, contact the All-American Soap Box Derby at www.AASBD.com.
   
   
2. Decide which type of car you wish to build (see descriptions below). There will be clinics and informational meetings to help you along the way. You may want to look for a sponsor(s) to help underwrite the cost of your racer. You will need to purchase a car kit and a set of Z-Glas wheels. All kits are available only through the AASBD Headquarters office.
   
   
3. Read the official plans and build your car exactly as the instructions indicate. Plan to attend construction clinics and driver's meetings. The clinics are intended to help you understand the regulations and guide you in building a safe and competitive car.
   
   
4. Practice, Practice and Practice. You will gain experience with each trip down the hill. Get to know your car and how it feels. Participate in local rallies throughout the region. Take time to build the bond between driver and parent/ guardian, and make new friends along the way.
   
   
5. SEE YOU AT THE TRACK!

Types of Cars:

The Stock Division is for racers age 8-13 years old. Stock Cars can accommodate a racer up to (approx.) 5'3" tall and 125 lbs. The Stock Car, a leanforward design, is sold as a kit which includes everything needed for racing with the exception of Z-Glas Racing Wheels and weight. Because painting is not permitted on the Stock Car shell, drivers have their choice of purchasing one of 5 colors: red, white, blue, black or yellow. Builders should allow 6-10 ours to assemble their car.

The Super Stock Division is designed for racers age 10-17 years old. Super Stock Cars can accommodate a larger racer up to (approx.) 6'0" tall and 150 lbs. The Super Stock Car, a lean-forward design, is sold as a kit which includes everything needed for racing with the exception of Z-Glas Racing Wheels and weight. This car comes as a white shell and may be painted. Builders should allow 6-10 hours to assemble their car.

The Masters Division is for racers age 10-17 years old and is usually driven by the more experienced drivers. Masters Cars can accommodate a child up to (approx.) 6'0" tall and 160 lbs. Because of the lay-down (enclosed) design of the car, smaller drivers are also competitive in this division. The "Scottie" Masters Car is a kit including all parts needed for racing with the exception of the Z-Glas Wheels, racing helmet, and weight. Considerably more time is needed to assemble the "Scottie" than the other models.