A local shop event in New Bern is set to raise funds for the art program at New Bern High in an unconventional way — belt sander drag racing.
Shop Class New Bern will host its annual Belt Sander Drag Race on Sept. 20 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at its facility at 406 Guion St. in New Bern. The event will feature local woodworkers, craftsmen and the public racing belt sanders down a 35-foot track to compete for trophies.
Shop Class New Bern is a woodworking shop that aims to teach people how to make their own pieces of furniture, artwork and more through hands-on learning and guides to teach how to safely operate equipment and the basics of woodworking with a Woodworking Fundamentals class.
The shop was started by current owner and woodworker, Maurice Howland, who is good friends with Ashley Layne McDaniel, an art teacher at New Bern High School.
“Ashley is a longtime supporter of the shop and a wonderful friend,” Howland said.
Howland said this year marks the shop’s fifth year supporting the arts program with the proceeds from their events. Last year, they raised more than $1,800 for the program.
Belt sander racing features two belt sanders in parallel wooden tracks, powered by a common switch. Each heat begins with the flip of a switch, sending the sanders racing down the track, spitting wood dust. A winner is declared each round in a double-elimination-style bracket.
Shop Class New Bern’s event is run in accordance with International Belt Sander Drag Racer Association rules and regulations. There are three categories of competition for three different types of sanders that participants can be judged on.
Those racing a stock sander cannot have had any changes made that would affect motor speed and no alterations. A modified sander has enhanced speed and must fit onto the track, plug into a standard three-prong, 110-volt outlet and use an unaltered, store-bought sanding belt.
Lastly, decorated sanders are either stock or modified sanders that are both decorated and still functional in the race. Prizes are given for best decorated and are divided up by age group, theme and crowd favorite.
Howland said that the event also has students volunteer from New Bern High School as “cord girls” that will collect the cords from the sanders after they extend down to the end of the tracks and bring them back to reset the starting position.
The event will also host a food truck, live music, a Brewery 99 beer tent and a raffle. Gates will open at noon, and races will continue until all heats have been decided. Entry to the event is $5 for both racers and the public, and all funds will go toward the art program at New Bern High School.