Pickens Soap Box Derby Race

OFFICIAL RACE RULES

General Requirements

• Every participant must complete a registration form and sign a liability waiver before racing.
• Participants under 18 years of age must have a parent or legal guardian complete and sign all required forms.
• All derby cars must pass a safety inspection prior to competition.
• Drivers must attend the mandatory driver’s meeting.
• Helmets must be worn at all times while on the race course.

Car Specifications

• Maximum Width: 42 inches
• Maximum Length: 88 inches
• Maximum Height: 48 inches
• Gravity-powered vehicles only.
• No electric motors or gasoline engines.
• Four wheels required.
• Maximum wheel diameter: 26 inches.
• No skateboard or caster wheels.
• Vehicle design is open, provided all safety requirements are met.
• Sharp edges must be rounded, folded, or covered.
• Cars must display their assigned race number on the front and both sides.

Vehicle Safety Requirements

All vehicles must pass inspection before racing.

Each vehicle must:

• Have a functional steering system.
• Have a functional braking system capable of safely stopping the vehicle.
• Allow the driver to safely exit in an emergency.
• Have secure tow points on the front and rear if required by race officials.
• Be structurally sound.

Driver Safety Requirements

• Drivers must remain seated facing forward.
• Hands and feet must remain inside the vehicle.
• Face-first driving positions are prohibited.
• Driver’s helmet must be positioned at least 24 inches behind the front of the vehicle.
• DOT, Snell, or CPSC-approved helmets are recommended.
• Chin straps must be secured.
• Drivers must remain in their vehicle after crossing the finish line until directed by race officials.
• Closed-toe shoes are required.
• Long pants and long sleeves are recommended.

Conduct & Sportsmanship

Participants, parents, and spectators are expected to display good sportsmanship.

The following may result in disqualification:

• Unsportsmanlike conduct
• Intentional contact with another vehicle
• Verbal abuse
• Physical altercations
• Failure to follow race official instructions

Race officials’ decisions are final