10 Tips for a Successful Awana Grand Prix Event

For just a moment, breathe deep. Can you smell the fragrant pine track? Can you hear the squeals of joy and hope as the kids crowd the sides to watch the finish line? Can you sense the work and love in each carefully crafted car? Awana Grand Prix is one of the most exciting outreach events your Awana kids can participate in. It is fast-paced, Gospel-oriented and a beautiful opportunity for parents and kids to spend quality time together! Whether this is your first or 25th year, we’ve compiled a few tips from seasoned leaders to help you prepare for your upcoming Grand Prix event.

Tips for Success from Racing Experts

1. “Sell the cars at least a month ahead. More time is better! Put the rules on the back side of the flyer you hand out for the event.” Melissa Austin

2. Record the names of everyone you sell a car to. Preload [those names]  into your software before race day. This reduces downtime between check-in and being ready to start the races.” Brooke Gallaway  Note: Commander Bill stresses the importance of using quality software.

3. Hold a work day several weeks before your race. Provide saws, sanders, paint and other supplies families might not have at home. Invite kids and parents who need help cutting their cars. Marsha Pope Rosson

4. Make sure to include a salvation message during your event. Some churches find giving the message before the races begin is best, while others like to give it before the awards. Direct your message to both kids and parents.

5. Draft non-Awana parents to run the night so that Awana leaders have time to visit with families. Christy

6. “Pick a really good emcee, someone who can keep talking as heats are reset. Make sure that emcee has Awana trivia/facts and info about upcoming events.” Lisa Arndt Lingle

7. Consider partnering with other churches in your area to share the cost of a track or ask around to see if there is a church who will let you borrow one. 

8. “We race Cubbies, Sparks and T&T’s, and each group has a set of trophies for speed.” Cynthia Osterling

9. At the end of the evening, hold parent/leader and parent/children races. Lisa Arndt Lingle

10. Always keep spare axels and wheels on hand so that no one lands in the pit.

Want More Ideas for a Successful Grand Prix Event?

Check out the Awana Store for pre-cut vehicles or wood block kits, decorations, awards, tracks and more.

Be inspired with fun designs! Check out the Awana Pinterest page.

Stay connected through the Awana Facebook page. You’ll get the latest news, greatest tips, and best of all–meet leaders just like you from around the world.

Make a plan. Need help getting your event off the ground? Check out this post designed to keep your event on schedule!

Got a great tip? Let us all know!