The 2023 Orange Crate Derby

We are looking for a new team to organize and run the Orange Crate Derby in Chula Vista! The current organizers are happy to share knowledge and resources but we need some new man or woman power. The race hasn't been run in the past 3 years because of the pandemic.

If you would like to get information about helping to run the derby, building a car and racing this year please send your request to lechner@cox.net or call 619 754-5089.

 

Take a look at what racing in the Orange Crate Derby is like!

Orange Crate Derby

Get Involved!

There is lots of information on this website about racing, building a car or enjoying the race as a spectator. Chula Vista Sunrise Rotary has been the sponsor and host of the race. We'd love to have you step up and to volunteer so that community kids and families can have a great day of racing!

Come join the fun!

This is a wonderful family event that's been going on in the Chula Vista/Bonita area for over 40 years! Kids, ages 7-14, race in home-built, wooden, gravity powered cars down a hill in Chula Vista, California. Spectators are welcome!

Race

Build your own car or buy a car. We have build a car clinics where you can get expert help along the way. We have old cars available for sale if you are just getting into the race or don't have the time and tools to make your own right now. These cars can be painted by your kids and named. Some of the cars need various degrees of repair but some are former champions! Contact Bob Lechner at lechner@cox.net.

Volunteer

If you're interested in volunteering or sponsoring the 2022 Orange Crate Derby contact race organizer Bob Lechner at lechner@cox.net.

Like us on Facebook and share your photos and get up to the minute news about the Orange Crate Derby.

Download a flyer about the race to share with a friend or post at your school or church!

Congratulations to the winners in our 4 age groups:

A divison 2019 winnersA Group - 7-8 year old Winners for 2019 (left to right)

#17 Mavens - Second Place

#53 Beat the Heat - First Place

#94 Danica's Dream Ride - Third Place

B Group - 9-10 year old Winners for 2019B division 2019 winners

#77 Mitzy Pinkfire - Second Place

#36 The Beast - First Place

#90 Termitenator - Third Place

C division 2019 winnersC Group - 11-12 year old Winners for 2019

#31 Smokey's Fire Patrol - Third Place

#1 Engine No. 1 - First Place

#10 Bones - Second Place

D Group - 13-14 year old Winners for 2019

#19 Ride the Dog - Third Place

#90 Termitenator - First Place

#74 Wave Runner - Second Place

Photos from the 2019 Orange Crate Derby

Volunteer and Sponsorship Opportunities

This is a community event! Chula Vista Sunrise Rotary has been organizing volunteers and providing sponsorship of the race. If you're interested in helping out or joining us in 2022 please email race organizer Bob Lechner at lechner@cox.net. We have opportunities for volunteers ages 15 and up.

Channel 10's Joe Little had 2 racers in the 2016 Orange Crate Derby. Here is a look at their experience.