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Area Soap Box Racers Prep for the Big Race !

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Contributed by: glenn scott on 4/22/2007

Past Derby Drivers are taking down their cars from the garage wall and beginning the tune-up process in anticipation of the big local race, Sunday June 24. Axle alignment needs to be checked, a new brake pad will be installed, cables tightened and some test runs will be driven to see how straight the car tracks. These drivers know that correct wheel setting and proper weight placement are critical to having a competitive car.

New racers are ordering their car kits and beginning the construction process. Clinics to assist them with interpretation of plans, tips on putting the car together and advice from the "old pros" are being held regularly. In most cases, a car can be built in just a few days; however, tuning the car to perfect its performance, may take a little longer. But with the driver doing the work aided by a little adult assistance, it all comes together rather quickly.

Once cars are assembled and the driver is registered, they may participate in a pre-inspection and practice day. In the inspection phase, car and driver are weighed together to be sure they don't exceed the weight limitation. Cars are also checked at this point to determine if too much weight is placed toward the tail of the car. Cars may not be more than 15 lbs tail heavy. A complete inspection of the car is then conducted to assure organizers and drivers that all specifications have been followed and that the car is fully operational. These checks are necessary to be sure the car is safe to run.

After inspection, drivers may practice running down the track on the hill where the main race will occur. This year, practice day is on June 10 and race day is June 24. All cars are brought to the race site the day before the race to be inspected again to be sure corrections identified at pre-inspection are fixed. The cars are then impounded overnight in preparation for the main race the following day. Drivers may not touch their cars after impoundment nor may they work on them during the race unless something breaks and then, repairs are done under the supervision of an inspector.

There are three divisions of derby race cars, Stock, Super Stock and Masters. Stock cars are a little smaller and designed for youngsters from 8 to 14. Maximum weight for these cars, car and driver, is 200 lbs. Super Stock and Masters cars are for kids 10 to 17 and may reach 230 lbs and 255 lbs, respectively. Addition of weight to achieve these limits is perfectly legitimate but placement of weight to achieve correct balance is another of the critical factors that makes derby car construction so challenging.

The Pikes Peak Soap Box Derby is managed by local Sertoma Clubs and is open to all youngsters. Registration is going on right now. Interested kids and their parents may learn more by checking the derby's website at ppsbd.com.

Contact: Glenn Scott, Director
488-8808 or kayglen@comcast.net

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CONTRIBUTOR INFO

glenn scott

colorado springs , CO

glenn scott has posted 25 stories and 1 comment since joining on 1/29/2007. glenn scott 's average story rating is 5.

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