The Bisbee Coaster Race is the oldest (since 1914), longest (a mile and a half), and probably the fastest gravity-powered race in the world. It's for kids - 16 and under - and the coasters can't weigh more than 350 pounds.
It started out as a kid's race. In 1914, the driver could be no more than 14. However, in some years, adults were allowed to race and one year the winning adult coaster weighed 1,000 pounds. There were some accidents and more than one death. There is more emphasis on safety these days; there are practice runs, safety checks, brake requirements, spectator safety guidelines, and a big insurance policy.
It takes place Fourth of July weekend.
Some of the oldies from a coaster boneyard next to Tombstone Canyon Road:
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