RACEWAY GIVES · YOUTH RACING

Soap Box Derby

Gravity-powered racing for the next generation — presented by Raceway Gives in cooperation with the St. Louis Jaycees.

Sunday, May 31, 2026

Register at the STL Soap Box Derby View Schedule

ABOUT THE DERBY

Build It, Race It, Win It

The Soap Box Derby is a celebration of engineering, focus, and friendly competition. Conducted in cooperation with the St. Louis Jaycees and presented by Raceway Gives, young racers design and pilot their own gravity-powered cars down the track.

Winners may earn the chance to compete in the All-American Soap Box Derby Championship in Akron, Ohio — the national stage for soap box racing.

Soap Box Derby racing

WHO CAN RACE

Two Driver Divisions

Stock

Ages 7–13

Super Stock

Ages 9–18

LEADING UP TO RACE DAY

Event Schedule

  • Car pickup dates — being determined
  • Workshop for registered drivers — week of May 4
  • Inspection — May 30, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM (free to go once complete)
  • Derby Day — Sunday, May 31, 8:00 AM on Mackland Ave (“the Hill”), until a winner is determined
  • Every driver receives at least one practice run

HOW IT RUNS

Race Day Format

  • Starting ceremony — 11:00 AM
  • Each driver receives at least one practice round
  • Competition is held for each class (Stock & Super Stock)
  • The number of rounds per racer depends on winning their heat race
  • Each round is two races — drivers switch lanes for the second
  • The driver with the best round advances

Ready to Race in 2026?

Whether you want to build a car, volunteer on race day, or sponsor a young driver, there is a place for you at the Soap Box Derby.

Get Involved