This race evolved in El Segundo over the decades and has grown from a local event to including multiple Cub Scout Packs. It has no actual affiliation with the International Soap Box Derby. Certain rules may seem somewhat odd (e.g., “no wheel bearings”), but these restrictions limit the technology, cost, and speed to reasonable levels. Safety and fun are the two most important reasons for the success of the event.

A team of three Cubs is the right size for a one-car effort, both in terms of the cost of building the car and racing opportunities (all cars will get three runs down the hill). Larger Dens may want to consider building multiple cars. Think of the car as an investment in a multi-year activity that your Cubs can race each summer throughout their Cubbing career. Each year, your car can be improved upon (talk to the veterans about speed tips) and become faster and more competitive. The biggest investment in time and money is in the first year.

There are frequently secondhand cars available for purchase on ebay.com, Facebook Marketplace, and craigslist. They may need sprucing up or major repairs, but many are $100's of dollars less than a comparable new car. Remember that parents and extended family may have unique and helpful contributions to building (or rebuilding) a derby car that their Scout can use for several years. Check the dimensions carefully - not all sizes of "derby" or "gravity racer" cars meet our qualifications. Also, note that cars used for other races may lack a seatback, seatbelt, or brake system required for our race. Evaluate any purchase and plan time to make the repairs or modifications required.

Building and painting the simple wooden car shown in the plans below may help your current Bears (or graduating Wolves if after June 1st) achieve some of the current "Baloo the Builder" requirements. Webelos may complete some of the current elective "Built It" requirements. Once the new 2024 Cub program requirements are available, the race organizers aim to provide more details on requirments that may be satisfied by participating. 

Contact Pack 968 with questions. There are a limited number of "loaner" cars that may be available on a first come, first served basis. Additionally, a limited number of custom wheel bushings (sized to fit the circa 2018-2022 official [White] Soap Box "Z-Glas" wheels) may be available for purchase.