Cape Girardeau Soap Box Derby

Known as the greatest amateur racing event, Soap Box Derby is a youth racing program that began in 1934. Girls and boys ages 7-18 race gravity powered cars, reaching speeds up to 30 miles an hour.  

The annual race in Cape Girardeau, sponsored by the Cape Girardeau Rotary Club, is typically held on the first Saturday in May. Drivers race down a portion of North Sprigg Street between Bertling Street and Lexington Avenue.

The Soap Box Derby is a great experience for both drivers and their families.  Through our clinics and race we strive to fulfill the motto, "The kid builds the car and the car builds the kid." 

You do not need to purchase a car to participate. There are a limited number of cars available from The Cape Girardeau Rotary Club and other organizations for use. Generally, there are several cars available that go unused. Contact the race director if you would like to participate and do not have access the a SBD car.  In addition we provide the weights, special tools and car components needed to prepare a car to race.

IMPORTANT DATES

First clinic

April 1, 2023   

Location to be announced, Cape Girardeau, MO

Second clinic

April 15, 2023

St. Vincent de Paul Grade School Gym, 1912 Ritter Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO

(NOTE: Enter on Ketterer Drive off of Clark St.)

NOTE: REGISTRATION IS CLOSED AFTER 9 A.M. ON SATURDAY, APRIL 15th, 2023

Final check-in

May 5, 2023

Blanchard Elementary School, 1829 N. Sprigg Street, Cape Girardeau, MO

RACE DAY

May 6, 2023

Blanchard Elementary School, 1829 N. Sprigg Street, Cape Girardeau, MO

Rain Date

May 7, 2023

Blanchard Elementary School, 1829 N. Sprigg Street, Cape Girardeau, MO