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For over five decades, the Snowball Derby has been the pinnacle of short-track racing, a race that every stock car driver aspires to win. Hosted annually at the renowned Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, Florida, the event draws a star-studded lineup of NASCAR professionals, short-track legends, and emerging talent. More than just a race, the Snowball Derby is a grueling test of skill, endurance, and resilience.
Record-Breaking Stakes in 2024
This year’s Snowball Derby is setting new records, with an impressive $50,000 grand prize and the highly coveted Tom Dawson Trophy on the line. As anticipation builds, the race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions to date, featuring a powerful mix of established stars and rising talents. Racing fans are in for an unforgettable showdown.
Full Snowball Derby Schedule and How to Watch
The Snowball Derby is more than just a single race—it’s an entire week of exciting action at Five Flags Speedway. Here's the full event schedule for 2024:
- Tuesday, December 2: Snowball Derby Kickoff Party, streamed live on FloRacing.
- Wednesday, December 3: Qualifying draw to determine starting positions.
- Thursday, December 4: Practice sessions and local division races.
- Friday, December 5: Qualifying for the Snowball Derby’s 300-lap main event.
- Saturday, December 6: Snowflake 100 Pro Late Model race, the biggest event for Pro Late Models.
- Sunday, December 7: The 57th Annual Snowball Derby begins.
How to Watch: For the first time ever, the Snowball Derby will be streamed live on FloRacing, available to all subscribers. Viewers can catch the action on Smart TVs, mobile devices, tablets, or computers. Non-subscribers can sign up via the FloRacing website or app, compatible with Roku, FireTV, and more.
A Competitive Field of Drivers
With a stellar roster of NASCAR talent, including Ty Majeski, Noah Gragson, and Chandler Smith, the 2024 Snowball Derby is expected to be a highly competitive event. These NASCAR stars are going head-to-head with seasoned short-track veterans and fresh, rising stars—promising an action-packed race. Here’s a glimpse of some of the key drivers to watch:
Noah Gragson: The 2018 Snowball Derby champion returns for his eighth attempt at victory. Despite some race-day struggles in recent years, Gragson is determined to rewrite his Snowball Derby story this time around.
Ty Majeski: A two-time Snowball Derby winner and the reigning Truck Series champion, Majeski has dominated the event in recent years. He is considered one of the top contenders for the win.
Chandler Smith: The 2021 Snowball Derby winner, Smith is known for his consistency and has never finished worse than seventh in his six Derby starts. His solid track record makes him a favorite for the upcoming race.
William Sawalich: A two-time ARCA East champion, Sawalich is coming off a solid top-10 finish in his Derby debut last year. He is looking to build momentum before his transition to Joe Gibbs Racing in 2025.
Derek Kraus: With nine previous Derby attempts, Kraus is looking to finally crack the top 10. His experience and perseverance make him a strong sleeper pick.
Carson Kvapil: A rising star and protege of Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kvapil impressed many with a Late Model Stock win at Martinsville and is bringing that same energy to the Snowball Derby.
Strong Truck Series Representation
The Truck Series will also be well-represented, with drivers like Johnny Sauter, a seasoned short-track veteran and Truck Series champion, and Dawson Sutton, a promising rookie who is making his Derby debut. Sutton, after a fourth-place finish in last year’s Snowflake 100, is eager to make an impact in his first Snowball Derby.
The Younger Generation Stepping Up
Alongside the experienced veterans, the 2024 Snowball Derby is set to showcase several younger talents, including Jake Garcia, who nearly won the Derby as a 14-year-old in 2019. Garcia’s potential and his prior close call make him one to watch closely in this year’s event.
