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| Here's some general information on frequently asked questions:
Question: How do I get started? First, we'd like to state that we all were beginners at one point, so don't hesitate to ask questions. You'll find that all derby people will gladly answer your questions to the best of their knowledge. It's like a big family. OK, let's get started: You'll need to choose which division you'll be racing in:
Once you've decided which division is best for you to race in, purchase your car kit or get started with plans on your Masters Stick car. Obtain the car and Z-Glass wheels. Most people get theirs from the All-American Soap Box Derby, in Akron, Ohio (otherwise known as the AASBD, or just "Akron"). You can also purchase a car kit from someone who has one, keeping in mind that only axles that are 7 years old or less are eligible to race in the Soap Box Derby. Axles are clearly stamped with the AASBD logo and year they were created. Now get started on construction. The Stock and SuperStock division car kits can be built within 2-3 days, then you'll "tweak" the car as you get experience in the derby. Scottie Special cars and Stick cars take longer to construct. Don't forget to add weight to the car you're driving so you'll be at the division's weight limit! Many derby folks have enough weights to get their car up to the maximum allowable weight, and then some small weight to account for weight fluxuations with the driver (depending on how many hot dogs he/she ate at the concession stand during yesterday's race). :) Once your car is ready to go, check the race schedule for upcoming events. Some races require sign-up prior to race day, but for most you can come out on race day and sign up that morning. The first time you race, you'll need to bring in a copy of the racer's birth certificate as proof of age (see FAQ "How old do I need to be to race?"). On race day show up at about 8 am ready to go, you'll get weighed in, you'll take your trial run down the hill, then you'll get scheduled to race against a competitor. Then the REAL fun begins. Question: What are the costs associated with Soap Box Derby? There are some costs associated with racing in this sport, and some or all of them can be paid for by a sponsor. First, there's the cost of obtaining a car and Z-Glas wheels. Check the AASBD's price list for current pricing & shipping costs. Then there are race fees. Each race organization (Salem, for example) pays a race fee to the AASBD or NDR to hold a race. This, along with other costs, is offset by entry fees, usually $35 per race (usually two races in a weekend). There are discount entry fees for multiple racers in the same family. If you decide to get real involved in the derby, you may wish to purchase some special tools at one point, but they're certainly not necessary in the beginning. Question: How old do I need to be to race? All-American Soap Box Derby:Stock and Super Stock Divisions: Participants must be 8 years old by the date of their local race. Participants may race through age 17, but they must not turn 18 years old before August 1 of the current racing year. Masters Division: Participants must be 10 years old by the date of their local race. Participants may race through age 17, but must not turn 18 years old before August 1 of the current racing year. National Derby Rallies (NDR): Stock Division: 7-16th birthday SuperStock Division: 9-21st birthday Senior Division (Masters Stick Car): 10-21 Masters Division: 10-21st birthday Question: Are there national events? Yes. There are several competitions that end up in National Championships:All-American Local Soap Box Derby Race This is a one-day, winner-take-all race, with the first place finisher in each division going back to Akron for the World Championship race. All-American Rally Program Race for points throughout the year to qualify for the National Rally Championships. NDR Rally Program Race for points throughout the year to qualify for the National Championships.
Question: What's the difference between All-American Soap Box Derby (AASBD) and National Derby Rallies (NDR)? The main difference is that there are different sets of points for racing under these two organizations. If you race in an NDR Rally, you're racing for NDR points. If you race in an All-American Rally, you're racing for AARally points. There are little differences in the rules.Question: How can I become a sponsor of the Derby? The best way is to get in touch with one of the Board Members of the Salem Soap Box Derby Association, and tell them that you or your business will sponsor a driver. Sponsors can pay for cars that some racers could not otherwise afford, and pay for some or all race fees throughout the year. Also, there are many needs for track improvements, concessions, etc. There are many ways to help! |
http://www.salemsbd.org |
