Flint Soap Box Derby
BUILD SOMETHING BIGGER!
Let’s Race in 2024!
The Flint Soap Box Derby is building something bigger!
Beginning with our building workshops, and continuing with our annual race, the Flint Soap Box Derby renewed a community tradition in an exciting (and fast!) way.
In 2024, the Flint Soap Box Derby will continue provide hands-on STEM learning in a collaborative environment that builds community partnership.
Come join us and take part in the fun!
Our Race
The Flint Soap Box Derby is more than just a race - it’s a dynamic learning opportunity, an athletic pursuit, and an exciting community event all in one!
Our race provides participating youth the chance to learn by doing, to build enduring friendships, and to cultivate a passion for STEM/STEAM career paths.
Today, the costs to participate in organized competitive events are increasing, and for many, are unaffordable. We believe in the power of community, and recognize the importance of hands-on learning for today’s youth.
Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, the Flint Soap Box Derby is available for any youth wishing to participate.
After all, we are not just racing - we are BUILDING SOMETHING BIGGER!
Our Mission
Reintroduce Soap Box Derby racing to the Great Flint Community for hands-on STEM/STEAM education and community partnership.
Create a community-wide event for local enjoyment that further generates statewide, regional, and national interest.
Partner interested racers with community groups, other community participants, and other local universities, to design, build, and race soap box cars.
Implement year-round Soap Box Derby-related educational programs and workshops for team participation.
Organize cleanup, restoration, and beautification efforts at Cronin Derby Downs for partnered teams.
Learn
Hands-on STEM/STEAM education
Given the relatively short car assembly times and hands-on engagement, this race can serve as a simple platform for development. STEM/STEAM careers are growing in demand, and the Soap Box Derby is one way to introduce technical concepts required in critical fields such as advanced and autonomous technologies.
Have Fun
friendships built to last
The Flint Soap Box Derby is an event for the entire community, and more than just cars are built in this race. The friendships established and memories made are enduring, and the Soap Box Derby allows all participants - racers, volunteers, and spectators alike - to experience a vibrant community event.
Race
compete, or not
Anyone interested in racing is welcomed and encouraged - regardless of experience level. The Flint Soap Box Derby is YOUR race, and we strive to make it a meaningful experience for YOU! Come join us and experience the thrill of GRAVITY RACING!
join us as we return events to cronin derby downs!
Flint’s Home for Racing
Cronin Derby Downs
Flint, Michigan put the world on wheels, so it is no surprise that the Soap Box Derby has a cherished legacy in the area. Beginning in 1938, one of the early years of the race, the Soap Box Derby has been a celebrated community event across the City of Flint.
Initially held on Cadillac Street, Mayor Donald R. Cronin oversaw the establishment of a permanent location for local youth to learn about, assemble, and race Soap Box Cars. Cronin Derby Downs opened in 1969, and remains one of the only permanent Soap Box Derby tracks in Michigan.
Over the years, Cronin Derby Downs has played host to many competitive and educational racing pursuits and produced three Soap Box Derby World Champions.
As our program continues to grow, we intend to return event programming to Cronin Derby Downs as a multi-purpose community venue in the City of Flint.
Get Involved
The Flint Soap Box Derby offers something for everyone - racers, spectators, and community participants alike. This race has a wonderful legacy across the community, and with your help, can become an enduring community event once again.
Sign Up to Race
Registration for the 2022 Flint Soap Box Derby has closed, however please sign up to receive the latest information on future events throughout 2022!
Volunteer
The Soap Box Derby is a community event, and volunteers are needed in order to make this a fun-filled, exciting, event for racers and spectators.
Make a Donation
The Soap Box Derby is available to everyone, thanks to your generous support. If you’d like to make a contribution or learn about sponsorship opportunities, please inquire below.
Race Registration
Registration for the June 1, 2024 Flint Soap Box Derby is open..
Please sign up to receive information on post-race events throughout the remainder of 2024.
Please complete the following so you can receive all necessary Soap Box Derby information.
Volunteer
The Flint Racing Program is an exciting event for the entire community - and it takes a community to make it a truly great experience!
Volunteers are needed for every race component from vehicle assembly, track maintenance and repair, start line officials, event planning, concessions, etc.
Whatever the capacity in which you are able to contribute, your dedication, talent and expertise will make the Flint Soap Box Derby a one-of-a-kind event that showcases the spirit of the Greater Flint Community.
support
the flint soap box derby
The Flint Soap Box Derby is available to everyone, thanks to your generous support. With your donations, we are able to provide a fun, hands-on, gravity racing experience for local youth. Your contribution directly supports program materials for soap box assembly and race necessities, including track repair and maintenance.
If you’d like to learn about sponsorship opportunities, please inquire below.
Flint Soap Box Derby is a Michigan 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation
Contact Us
Stay in touch with all Flint Soap Box Derby developments! When completing the form below, please also indicate your desired level of participation.
Info@FlintSoapBox.org