An inter-school STEM competition
Krugersdorp, Gauteng
2-4 July 2026
What is National Gravity Racing?
National Gravity Racing is a national inter-school STEM engineering competition where high school teams design, build, test and race a full-scale gravity-powered car.
No motors
No batteries
No stored energy
Just physics, engineering, design thinking and teamwork, brought to life on a 750-metre downhill race track.
The competition brings together schools from across South Africa to compete for national titles, engineering awards, and recognition in a real-world, high-pressure racing environment.
Who can enter?
- High Schools (Grades 8–12)
- Open to all South African schools
- Each school may enter one or more teams
Team Structure
- 1 Driver
- 3–6 Team Members
- 1 Teacher / Adult Mentor (mandatory)
What Students will do
Participants will:
- Design and construct a full-size gravity racing car
- Apply Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Technology and Design
- Work within real technical and safety regulations
- Conduct testing, refinement and optimisation
- Compete head-to-head in qualifying and knockout racing
- Demonstrate teamwork, leadership and problem-solving under pressure
This is authentic STEM learning, not a simulation.
Who can enter?
- High Schools (Grades 8–12)
- Open to all South African schools
- Each school may enter one or more teams
Team Structure
- 1 Driver
- 3–6 Team Members
- 1 Teacher / Adult Mentor (mandatory)
What Students will do
This is authentic STEM learning, not a simulation.
Event Format (Overview)
- DAY 1 – SCRUTINEERING & PRACTICE
- Mandatory technical inspection
- Safety and compliance checks
- Practice runs (untimed)
DAY 2 – QUALIFYING
- Two official timed runs per team
- The fastest aggregate time determines seeding
- Funny Car exhibition runs (creative designs)
DAY 3 – KNOCKOUT RACING & FINALS
- Head-to-head elimination rounds
- Quarter-finals, semi-finals and finals
- Final placements for all teams
Awards & Recognition
- National Gravity Racing Champion
- Second Place
- Third Place
- Best Engineering
- Best Design
- Best Teamwork
- Funniest / Most Creative Car
Technical Specifications (Summary)
All cars must comply with the official rules provided upon registration.
Key requirements include:
- Gravity-powered only (no motors, batteries, springs, flywheels)
- Maximum length: 2.1m
- Max width: 1.2m
- Maximum total weight (car + driver): 120 kg
- Functional steering and braking systems are required
- Four wheels only
- Driver seated feet-first
- Full safety inspection before racing
The full technical rulebook, build specifications and safety guidelines will be issued to registered teams.
Why Enter?
- Aligns directly with STEM, Engineering & Design curricula
- Builds real-world engineering and teamwork skills
- National exposure and prestige for your school
- Inspires learners through hands-on competition
- A unique, unforgettable educational experience
How to Enter
1. Complete the online entry form below
2. Receive the official rules & build pack
3. Design and build your gravity car
4. Compete in July 2026
Registration Deadline: 12 April 2026
