Racing for Memories:
Bringing Joy to Special Needs Families
Welcome to the Gravity Cart Race, an exciting downhill event where special needs children pair up with able-bodied kids for an unforgettable ride! Organized by the Greater Spokane Valley Rotary Club, this unique race not only creates lasting memories but also helps raise critical funds for two amazing local nonprofits—Joya Foundation and Hope Foundation.
Save the Date: June 21, 2025!
June 21
Raising Funds for
Presented By Greater Spokane Valley Rotary Club
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Presented By Greater Spokane Valley Rotary Club 〰️
Experience the Fun!
The Gravity Cart Race is more than just a fun event; it’s a chance for families with special needs children to come together, create lasting memories, and experience the joy of inclusion. Every ride down the hill represents the heart of our community, where special needs children can participate in activities designed just for them. Through your support, we’re also raising funds to provide essential services for children and families in need.
Next Race Scheduled for June 21st, 2025
FAQs
Who is Greater Spokane Valley (GSV) Rotary?
The Greater Spokane Valley Rotary Club is one of the most viable Rotary clubs in Eastern Washington. We’re a group of local business leaders and community advocates dedicated to fundraising that supports our local community. Our major events include Celebration of Lights, Breakfast with Santa and our Challenge Race.
Safety:
The cars are carefully maintained and safety concerns are addressed. Extra padding is provided if necessary. Helmets are also provided and required for both Racers and Drivers. Feel free to bring your own helmet!
Where is the course?
Molter Rd at Liberty Lake Pavillion Park, between E Country Vista Rd and Valley Way.
How do Racers get into the car?
he Racer can either step into the car on their own or volunteers will assist Racers into and out of the car. No jumping off the ramp.
What's a Gravity Cart Race?
Gravity Cart Races allow kids with developmental disabilities the experience of a thrilling soap box derby-type race while riding in a car safely piloted by a vetted Driver. Two cars race down the course to the finish line. Each child has the opportunity to race multiple times during each heat. Lunch is provided and an awards ceremony completes a day full of fun and memories.
Does Greater Spokane Valley Rotary have liability insurance?
We have a Certificate of Insurance placing this race under the liability insurance of Rotary International.
Are the roads blocked off?
Yes. When arriving, let the volunteers know that you’re part of the Gravity Cart Race with Greater Spokane Valley Rotary.
Height/Weight Restrictions:
Due to the small soap box derby-type cars, Racers and Drivers must be 5’2” and/or less than 110 pounds. If your child is under 30 pounds, please bring a pillow to prop behind and under them.
What are the derby cars like?
The cars in this race fit two children; one Driver and one passenger (Racer). The cars have a steering wheel and a brake that only the Driver can control. The Racer often has a mock steering wheel with no connection to the steering and/or control of the car.
Are the Drivers trained?
YES! Training is Saturday, June 22nd at 7:30 AM prior to the start of the 1st heat. ALL Drivers MUST attend this mandatory training annually. It is at the sole discretion of Greater Spokane Valley Rotary to remove any Drivers if they are unable to control the car at any time, even if they successfully passed the Driver training. Drivers may drive for both heats or just one, depending on availability.
How are the cars, drivers and racers returned to the start line?
The kids remain in the car and an ATV tows the car and kids back to the starting line. Kids to remain seated while being towed. No passengers on the ATV’s.
Schedule:
Group A 8:30 AM to 10:00; Group B 10:30 AM to 11:30 – Lunch starts at approx. 11:30 AM.
Get Involved:
You can make a difference! Whether you want to sign your child up to participate, volunteer, or sponsor the event, there’s a way for everyone to get involved in making this day special.
Sign Up:
Have a special needs child? Register them for the event today!
Donate:
Support the cause by contributing to the Joya and Hope Foundations.
Be a Driver:
Able-bodied kids can help steer the carts—sign up now!
Volunteer:
Join us in making this day a success.
Contact Us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!