Ukiah School’s annual pine derby car race is April 24

UKIAH — Races rev up in Ukiah on Thursday, April 24, when children and adults test their pine derby cars.

“I think we’ve given out 75 car kits,” Ukiah School District Superintendent Laura Or said. “It’s growing every year.”

The idea started in 2021 when a student teacher from Eastern Oregon University wanted to develop a project that combined science and shop skills.

“We were just getting our (career and technical education) shop back on its feet,” Orr said.

That year featured a handbuilt track, and the race was for students in middle and high school.

“Kids loved it,” Orr said.

The next year the school used special funding to buy a real race track and expanded the race to the entire school and staff.

Ukiah has 32 students from kindergarten to grade 12.

Now in its fourth year, the race is open to all ages, and Orr said it has turned into a community event.

“I love the enthusiasm it has brought — it really brings the community together,” she said.

She said most community members will make a donation in exchange for a car kit.

Ukiah students build 17 trophies, which are awarded to first, second and third place in age groups from those younger than 4 up to adults, plus one for best of show.

“Some of these are gorgeous,” she said of the car designs.

The car kits, which are purchased by the school, are basic with a pine car block, four wheels and four pins. Then the participants make modifications — she’s seen a boat and aircraft carrier, and some kids are trimming the block to make space for 3D printed elements.

“They’re going for the best of show,” she said with a laugh.

The race

Weigh in and pit checks start at 5:30 p.m. on April 24 at the school. School board members will begin serving hot dogs and chips around the same time, Orr said.

The heats start around 6 p.m. Four cars can race at a time, and each round lasts less than four seconds.

Orr said a sensor at the end of the ramp logs the time down to ten-thousandths of a second.

“There have been times we need that because it’s tight,” Orr said.

Although competition is high, she said community spirit shines during the races.

“They’re all laughing, having a good time, and cheering for the 3-year-old and the 70-year-old,” she said.

Many cars are kept on display at the school.

“There are cars all over the place — we’re going to put more shelves up,” she said.