The “Auburn Funk Box Derby” returns to Lincoln Way, Auburn, CA on Sunday, September 18th, 2011. Additionally, there will be two pre-event “Help You Build” sessions on July 28th and August 18th (please see below).
In 1982 Bob Jetter pioneered the event originally called the “Funk Soap Box Derby.” At the time, San Francisco had a similar event, not with fast cars but rather of slow rolling, beautifully designed and decorated cars coming down the hills in the “City by the Bay.” They were judged on design, use of materials, use of color and showmanship. But Bob explained ours in Auburn would be all that and FUNKY!!! So off we launched our own Auburn derby.
First of all, what is Funky? It means different things to different people. According to Webster’s dictionary “Funky” means: “an earthy, unsophisticated style.” To us that meant let your imagination, your creativity, PLUS whatever it takes for you to express your meaning of FUNKY. Please keep in mind, my funk may not be your funk. For 10 years until 1992 the Derby rolled on each year and the fans loved it! The streets were filled with families, young and old, and the city of Auburn truly had an annual event they could love and embrace. But as time marches on, sometimes energy fades and folks get tired. For 18 years the derby has rested its memories in the minds of those who were there as spectators, as participants and as volunteers.
Not anymore - Now it’s time for the Derby to return for year two after being gone so long. The Auburn Funk Box Derby is back again and you’ll want to be part of the “next chapter” of that event people loved so much. Enjoy, let the simple “magic” of the derby fill your funny bone and may the children around and in you come to life thru a BIG SMILE!
Our desire is to have a fun filled family day, a day to remember, and, with God’s blessing, we hope to see the event return as it did almost 20 years ago. Thanks for joining our derby day and please let us know your thoughts of this memorable day. Please send “funky” comments to info@funkboxderby.com
This event is also a fun(d) raiser, after all expenses are paid we then distribute to two organizations that support the Derby and support the community;
Seniors First, who benefit our senior community with a variety of services and
Auburn's 20-30 Club, who buy Christmas gifts for under privileged children.
We will also be holding two "Help You Build" dates with Al Blanca (designer of last year’s winning derby car). The dates are Thursday July 28th and Thursday August 18th at 6:30 pm at 169 Taylor Road, Newcastle, CA (behind Carol's Market in Sierra Safety Bldg). Sponsors, wannabee racers and builder alike are all welcome. Please RSVP to Keith Hentschel to secure your spot.
For additional information on “The Auburn Funk Box Derby” please visit our hosted website presence at www.funkboxderby.com or call Keith G. Hentschel at for all the latest updates, partnerships, synergies, images and stories, event entry and a vast array of sponsorship details.