Hold the razor sharp skis and the spandex . . . the NASTAR race course just got a whole lot cuter. The annual Cardboard Sled Derby, a benefit for One to One Mentoring, takes place Saturday, March 21, 2020 on the NASTAR race course at the Telluride Ski Resort. All children ages 5-14, whether local or visiting, from Telluride, Norwood, Ridgway and beyond are invited to get crafty with cardboard, tape, a little glue, some wax and paint and try their hand at winning the title for Speed, Creativity and Sportsmanship.

“The Cardboard Sled Derby is the absolute best kid’s event of the year. The event draws budding thrill seekers, creative artists, and best friends looking to work as a team, for a chance to stand atop the podium,” says Tara Kelley, Executive Director of One to One Mentoring. “We are grateful for our long standing partnership with the Telluride Ski & Golf Company for making this phenomenal kid’s event a success year after year,” Kelley added.

The event brings awareness to the community about youth mentoring and raises funds to cover programming costs. All of One to One Mentoring’s services are free. The organization raises its entire budget through grants and donations. Caring, responsible adult mentors are always in demand and youth within the county, from kindergarten through high school, can apply to the program year-round.

“The creativity that goes into these sleds is remarkable,” exclaimed Kelley. “From dinosaurs to fire trucks to yellow submarines, puppies and sharks, the kids, their parents, and their mentors put forth a huge team effort in creating fast and incredibly artistic sleds.”

One to One Mentoring is looking for business sponsors for the 2020 event. Business’ that donate $350-$750 will have their logo featured boldly on one to five sleds, as well as ongoing mentions by the event MC’s and promotion on social and local media.

“Mentoring is so much more than homework help,” says Kelley. “Academics can be a component, but most importantly the kids in our programs gain confidence, have fun, and have a trustworthy adult who they can count on week to week. The relationships and skills built through mentoring have a lasting effect on the kids, the mentors, and the entire community,” Kelley explains.

SLED & RIDER RULES

– Open to ages 5-14 (Maximum Age is 14 years of age by 3/24/18)

– $25 per sled (payment link in online form)

– Each rider MUST have a signed WAIVER & RELEASE FORM to participate. NO EXCEPTIONS. (See link in online form)

– Maximum of 2 RIDERS per sled

– Riders may race on one sled team only

– Racers are required to wear ski helmets, goggles, gloves, long sleeves and long pants

– No ski boots permitted on sleds

– No parents allowed at the starting line area

SLED CONSTRUCTION RULES

– All sleds will be inspected for compliance of rules at registration. Sled inspectors have the final say.

– Sleds may be constructed of corrugated cardboard, paint, tape and glue ONLY with string/rope for handles

– No Sonotubes, pressed paper, metal, plastic, wood or metal tape permitted.

– No non-corregated cardboard sled runners. Runners must not extend more than 6″ in front of sled.

– Sleds must have a front, bottom and two sides. All sides must be a minimum of 6 inches in height and racer’s bodies must fit on sled.

– Sleds must be free of sharp or pointy objects. Any sled that questions the safety of the racer or audience will be asked to alter the sled or will not be able to race.

– Participants will be given the opportunity to fix any issues before racing begins. If a violation is detected at the start line, the sled will be disqualified from the event.

– No paddles, hockey sticks, etc. can be used by racers

– Waxing and oiling are permitted & encouraged