POWER TOOLS RACING 2024

James River Arts invites you to this family friendly competitive event. Simple rules, tons of fun! Take a corded hand-held power tool, turn it a custom racing machine, and compete with your friends and neighbors. Don’t forget to decorate your racer and give it a bold name. Compete for prizes and bragging rights!

Through the use of long power cords, power triggers wired open by duct tape, zip ties or baling wire, and 12-inch wide, 75-foot wooden runs, everyday tools like belt sanders, drills and circular saws are converted into racing machines that speed down guided tracks and are caught by hay bales.

The Track

The drag strip is 75′ of reasonably flat plywood track. There will be another 20′ or so to slow down with hay bales to help with the deceleration of entries. Racers will run on parallel wood tracks 1′ wide with 2″ X 4″ rails on either side. We will make every effort to maintain the straightness and accuracy of this track, but expect some variation and bumps at the joints.

Entry Fee & Prizes

Registration to compete in Power Tool Racing is $10 per entry. Race day handlers must be 18 years of age or older, but youth may work with adults to build their racer. Registration deadline is March 18, 2024.

Gift card prizes and certificates will be awarded by James River Arts for speed, creativity, and artistic design.

Build Day

There will be a free build day for participants on Friday, March 1rd from 5-8pm at Vector Space. Participants need to bring their own power tool racer and materials, but will have access to the tools and expertise available at Vector Space. Whether you’re stuck or not sure where to start, we can help! Plus, come scope out the competition 😉

Race Day

Power Tool Racing is a part of Maker Faire Lynchburg.

When: March 24, 2024
Where: Randolph College, 2500 Rivermont Avenue
Race Times: First heat starts at 1:00pm
Registration deadline is March 18, 2024