The National Derby Rallies, Inc. (The NDR) was organized in 1977 for the purpose of fostering individual development in youths through a structured program of Soap Box Derby-type racing and related activities.  The program was designed to give families involved in gravity powered, amateur-built race cars, numerous opportunities to race throughout the year.  This was accomplished by developing rules and regulations for sanctioned racing on a nationwide scale.  Rules and procedures were established to assure a reasonable level of uniform racing conditions across the nation.   With many derby racing groups from coast to coast hosting NDR sanctioned races, opportunities exist across the nation for families to race nearly every weekend at locations within reasonable driving distances from their homes.

NDR sanctioned races are held across the United States and Canada nearly every weekend from Easter to Thanksgiving.  The highlight of the year is the NDR National Championship held over an entire exciting week.  Racers travel from across the nation for a week of racing fun and a chance to win the title of "NDR National Champion."  Over a few special weekends, the new Regional Championship Series races are held.  These are national caliber races held close to home, with the top three finishers in each division earning a spot in the NDR National Championship Finals.