BUILD SOMETHING BIGGER!
 
 

Flint Racing and STEM

BUILD AS ONE!

 
 
 

Let’s RACE!

For the fifth time, we are racing into summer at Chevy Commons! Join us on Saturday, May 31st, 2025 as we host our annual soap box derby! We have an exciting summer ahead of new programming, activities, and events - and it all gets underway as we race fast!

Flint Racing and stem builds as one!

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 2025, Flint Racing and STEM will provide hands-on STEM learning in a collaborative environment that builds community partnership.

This year, we will also be offering STEM Camps throughout the Summer 2025 along with our traditional building workshop and race programming. We have BIG things ahead and stay tuned for updates on how to take part!

 
 
 
 
 
Button.png

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 don’t just race - we BUILD AS ONE!

 
 

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!

 
-7e1bc435802b22c7.jpg

join us as we return events to cronin derby downs!

fullsizeoutput_224.jpeg

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 2025 Flint Soap Box Derby will open this Spring . Please sign up to receive the latest information on future events in 2025 and 2026!

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.

IMG_1720.jpeg
 

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.

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