We want all the drivers to have some input in how things are done, we like to get some feedback now and again. New hills are always a good thing as ways to streamline the racing to make set up and races go smoother. If you have ideas or comments feel free to e-mail us. Before you do this however, please make sure you read the following guidelines to avoid unnecessary BS.
*Safety is a concern, keep in mind that some drivers and cars cannot perform in ultra-intense situations. Some of the courses are short and easy so everyone can have some fun, we're not trying to skirt death. Keep this in mind when looking for new hills. There are bigger, more death-defying hills out there, we want everyone to finish the races and go home intact, not on a stretcher, please keep this in mind.
*Wining is not important, being involved is, this is a group activity. Ideas and suggestions that are only to make certain kinds of cars and drivers win will be discarded out of hand. If you want the rules set up so you win every time, you need to re-think why you're doing this. Just replace the words "win" or "victory" with the word "snowman", that's how important it is.
* Just because you complain about things often does not mean you get your ideas pushed through. The squeaky wheel does not get the grease.
* Saying things like "Do this or I'll stop racing." will get no response, in fact we'll be glad you're gone. Ultimatums don't work.
* Personal conflicts are not ours to arbitrate. You can't like everyone you meet.
* Keep your ideas on group fun and longevity, put the group before the individual.
Some failed ideas:
Elimination Heats.
NO NO NO NO! What if we get one heat in and the cops come and break it up, what then? The other half of the racers get to just pack it up and not race? Flying start, all cars at once, not going to do it any other way. Don't ask.
Tell us where the course is.
No. Too much lurking around the course, the desire to run it before the race may be too strong. Out of town racers have no ability to see or test the course, it keeps things fair as they can be. We don't want to burn out the spots. We've spent countless hours locating these courses, we don't want to mess it up. Veteran drivers will know where the course is based upon the meet location, this does not mean we want people going up there, nor should you go around telling people where it's at. Our commando style set-up ensures that we get to get in at least one race, normally two. Please follow the game plan.
FAQ
Is soapbox racing illegal?No. We called ourselves the "illegal" gravity racing federation because the traditional or "All American Soapbox Derby" is very strict about how you race, who races and the cars construction, the cars are identical and come in a kit. We think this is antiseptic and boring like Nascar. Hence the illegal, not governed by the All American Soapbox Derby Rules moniker.
How does it work?
The Federation is ran by the group. Duties for each race are filled by volunteers, i.e. bring some cones, line marshal, website, make stickers etc. the winner from the previous course has to select the next course and inform the drivers of the time and place. All decisions are ratified by the group, the courses are an invitation, meaning if you don't like a given course, then don't show up. There are no leaders, no shot callers, ideas are bounced around at the beginning of the race and any changes are made by a group decision. We all know the formula and stick to it so we can all have fun.
Can I join?
At this moment in time you can subject to numbers, just get in touch with us.
Can I come watch?
No. This is not a hipster event where to stand around and pose with the right t-shirt. Spectators are bad news, they have been the source of all of our problems. We don't want problems, we want to race and have fun, be safe to race another day. Crowd control is an issue. Either you're in a car, running support or you're still asleep when we're bombing hills. That is all.
What are the rules for the cars?
We get this one a lot. Everything you need to know is in the rules section. And yes, they apply to everyone!!!!!
