Here, we have compiled answers to commonly asked questions. If you have any additional questions, please contact us
Where did the idea of a Soap Box Derby originate?
It began when Myron E. Scott, a photographer for the Dayton, OH, Daily News in 1933, took a photo of some boys racing down a hill in little homemade cars. Scott noticed the cars had been built using orange crates and soap boxes. So, he dubbed the race a soap box derby.
The Cullman Derby originated as a part of the Cullman Summer Series for kids in 2025.
What is the Cullman Derby?
Similar in many ways to the original “Soap Box Derby” it is a fun and exciting gravity racing competition. This event presents a great opportunity for creativity, collaboration, engineering, teamwork, and friendly competition!
When & Where is the Cullman Derby?
The Cullman Derby will take place on Sunday July 13, 2025 at the community field in Unadilla, NY. Check in begins at 9:00 AM and racing begins at noon.
Who can participate?
The Cullman Derby invites children and adults to be creative, build a derby cart together, and enter the gravity race competition. Our staff encourages families, merchants, schools, and community groups to organize a “build team” consisting of kids and adults to create a gravity driven cart.
There will be different age groups to ensure fair competition.
- Kids 8-12 years
- Teens 13-19 years
- Adults 20 years and above
Is there a limit to how many cars can register? Is there a registration deadline?
Yes, registration is limited to the first 40 to register. The deadline to register is June 1st.
Can STEAM students form teams for this competition?
Yes! Great idea!! STEAM education in our schools not only provides young learners with hands-on opportunities to build Science, Technology, Engineering, ART, and Math skills, it also provides the building blocks for practical skills that will help them in many facets of life. Add the need to communicate, be a team member, and collaborate with your peers and mentors and the derby build is an excellent opportunity for schools to use this derby as an opportunity to add to our children’s leadership skill sets.
Can someone and I build a car and we both race it?
Absolutely! We encourage family members, merchants, friends to partner with a younger person and collaborate on “the build” then enter the car in one or all of the age classes. Your mom can race in the adult division and with the same car you can race the same car in your age division.
What are the car specifications?
Derby cars can be made from kits, homemade or a combination of these. All cars must have four rubber wheels. Plastic wheels will not be allowed. No motors or propulsion systems are allowed; cars must be gravity-powered be able to steer, and include a mechanical breaking system. Full details of car specifications can be found under Vehicle Requirements.
Can I use pre-made kits?
Yes, you can use pre-made kits to build your car, as long as they adhere to the size and weight specifications. Custom modifications are encouraged to showcase your creativity!
How can I register for the Cullman Derby?
The registration form can be found under Registration Forms. We recommend signing up early, as spaces may fill quickly!
Is there a registration fee?
No! We want to try to keep the Summer Series as free or affordable as we can!
Can I Sponsor a Team or car without participating?
Please do!!! We are hoping that merchants and small businesses in the surrounding towns find this event as an opportunity to rally around our children and financially support the Summer Series and our children’s curiosity.
Our goal is to have teams of youth and adult members of our community engage in a team spirited derby car build which culminates in a friendly completive gravity fed, downhill surge to the finish line. We welcome any donations that will allow the Summer Series for our Community to be sustained for years to come.
If you or your organization are interested in sponsoring a car or a build team, email our staff at cullmanderby@aol.com
Are there opportunities for me to join another build team or find a mentor to help me build a car for the Cullman Derby?
Yes. Contact the Cullman Derby staff and we will do our best to find a build team that you can join in building and racing derby car.
Can I build my car with a team?
Absolutely! We encourage teamwork. You can form teams with friends or family to design and build your car together. “How to” video’s can be found under Vehicle Requirements.
Can I modify my car after registration?
Yes, participants can modify their cars until the day of the race. All vehicles will be inspected day of race to ensure safety and race regulations have been adhered to. If you’re not sure if your modification fits the Cullman Derby Race criteria please email us at cullmanderby@aol.com before race day.
What type of track will be used?
The race will take place on a straight, black top two lane, downhill, closed-off public street chosen for optimal speed. For More details about the track, please visit Race and Track Information.
Will there be practice runs?
No. You are responsible before race day to insure your cart meets the requirements of the Cullman Derby Race. Please make sure you test and retest your steering and braking systems well before race day.
Are there prizes for the winners?
Yes, there will be trophies and prizes for the top three finishers in each age group, as well as special awards for creativity and design.
What safety measures will be in place?
Safety is our top priority, but it starts with YOU! Test your brakes and steering well before the race. A helmet is mandatory as are closed-toe shoes. We strongly suggest long sleeved shirt, elbow pads, leather gloves, and sturdy long pants. Hay bales will be placed along Clifton Street to help soften any stray off track errors. We will have first-aid personnel on-site.
Can spectators attend?
Absolutely! We welcome spectators to cheer on the participants. There will be designated viewing areas along the track. More information can be found under Spectator Info.
What happens in case of bad weather?
In the event of inclement weather, we will communicate any changes to the schedule or location through our website and Facebook Page. You can sign up here for emailed notices.