Memory Lane: Soap Box Derby

Courtesy of Texas State

A competition usually reserved for kids, the Soap Box Derby is a tradition dating back to 1967 at Texas State. College students from student organizations, Greek life and residence halls can compete and race to the finish in their homemade cars.

Soap Box cars are different from your everyday motorized vehicle. These cars rely completely on gravity, only stopping when they lose momentum or run into barriers. At Texas State, the cars are launched from a large ramp at the top of a hill and stop by brakes or at safety hay bales.

Archive image courtesy of Texas State

When the derby first started in 1967, it drew more students than any other activity on campus. Now, they have the yearly event during homecoming week. 

If you’re a student and want to register for the race, make sure to schedule an inspection before October 29th! Otherwise, get ready to watch the race Friday November 5th.