2026 Rules

2026 Eastridge Soapbox Derby Specifications &  Rules (PDF)

2026 Derby Track Map - Cedar Ridge Rd. (PDF)

2026 Eastridge Neighborhood Soapbox Derby Liability Waiver (PDF)

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

1. Participants will have to complete and sign the 2026 Eastridge Neighborhood Soapbox Derby Liability Waiver in order to drive/ride in a derby car down the track. If under 18, driver must have a parent/guardian sign the waiver.

2. All cars must pass an inspection in order to race. Inspection is by appointment before Race Day. Passing of inspection is as determined by the Race Committee in accordance with the Rules. Cars failing inspection will not be permitted to compete until deficiencies are corrected and reinspected. 

3. Safety is our top priority at the Derby. All teams/racers must follow the instructions of race officials at all times. Their directions are final and must be followed immediately to keep the event safe and enjoyable for everyone. You may be disqualified for not complying with race officials instructions.

DRIVERS

1. Driving a racer is open to ages 8 to 88+, as long as they are able to steer and that all rules can be followed.

2. Drivers under 16, must have an adult (18+) designated as Crew Chief. The Crew Chief is responsible for all team drivers and must assist the racer at the Starting Line.

3. Ages 3 to 7+ may ride as a passenger, BUT…

   1. • ONLY in a car built as a two-seater.

      • ONLY with parent/guardian as the driver.

      • ALL car occupants must have their own seat and safety equipment.

4. A team of drivers is allowed, but must be designated before Race Day. Only members of your team will be allowed to race using your team's car.

5. If any member of a team commits a disqualification offense, then the entire team is disqualified.

CAR SPECIFICATIONS

1. Soapbox cars can be homemade of original design or from a kit. New and used soapbox cars of any age are welcome. Any use of materials is welcome but must be strong and secure, and no sharp protrusions. The car should be built to last the entire morning of racing without continuous breakdowns or repairs.

2. Wheels: Must have 4 wheels, or more. Wheels can be different sizes, but adjacent/parallel wheels must be the same diameter (e.g., rear wheels 7″ and front 6″). Minimum diameter: 4 inches. Maximum diameter: 8 inches. Maximum width: 6 inches. No wheels with bearings (lubrication okay). Non-inflatable (solid hard rubber).

3. Ground Clearance: Minimum: 3 inches. Maximum: 6 inches.

4. Width: Max. 42”. Length: Max. 60”, with a max distance from front tip of car to centerline of rear wheels: 56".

5. Brakes: Functioning hand or foot-controlled brake is required. Drivers may not use their feet on the pavement or tire to stop the car. Brake pads must not have protruding hardware that could damage the racing surface. Braking must be effective. We are not specifying the type of braking mechanism to use, but the Race Committee has final determination on effectiveness and therefore whether the car passes inspection. (For ideas and examples, contact Jason  (jason@hoytlink.com.)

6. Steering: Steering wheel, bars, or yoke designs allowed.  Use of steering limiters strongly suggested with these steering mechanisms. Rope/cable steering is allowed, but must have steering limiters. Steering using driver’s feet, rear wheel steering and aviation joysticks are prohibited. Steering must be effective. We are not specifying the type of steering mechanism to use, but the Race Committee has final determination on effectiveness and therefore whether the car passes inspection. (For ideas and examples, contact Jason  (jason@hoytlink.com.)

7. Enclosures & Hatches: Must be operable by the driver without assistance. No open-bottom cars allowed. A floorboard is required to prevent legs or feet from falling out.

8. Turnbuckles & Fasteners: Secure turnbuckles with safety wire, jam nuts, or equivalent methods. Fasteners must use lock washers, lock nuts, cotter pins, or other devices to prevent loosening.

9. Weight: Max Car Weight: 75 lbs. This is before the driver's weight is added.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

1. Helmets: Helmets are mandatory. Helmets must come with a functional chin strap (e.g., bicycle, motocross, hockey) for everyone in the car.

2. Gloves, Suits, and Goggles: Optional, but must not impair the ability to drive safely. Long sleeves and pants recommended if the car does not have a protective body.

3. Shoes: Closed-toe shoes required.

AUTHORITY & ENFORCEMENT

1. Race Committee Authority: The Race Committee has full authority to interpret, enforce, and amend these rules as necessary to ensure safety, fairness, and orderly conduct. All decisions of the Race Committee are final and not subject to appeal.

2. Compliance: All drivers must comply with these rules and with all directives issued by the Race Committee and Race Marshals. Failure to comply may result in warnings, penalties, disqualification, or removal from the event.

3. Safety Enforcement: The Race Committee may disqualify or remove any car or competitor/driver/team deemed unsafe or non-compliant. Safety determinations are at the sole discretion of the Race Committee.

4. Event Integrity: Unsportsmanlike conduct by competitors, or anyone associated with that team, will not be tolerated and may result in immediate disqualification.