A groundbreaking competition called Rolling Derby is set to launch, focusing on the specific skill of rolling joints. Founded by experienced professionals in the cannabis industry, this event will test participants’ speed and craftsmanship in joint-rolling, both virtually and in person, for adults aged 21 and older.
The Rolling Derby aims to turn the everyday act of rolling joints into an exciting spectator event. According to a press release from the organizers, the competition is designed to celebrate the art of joint-rolling, pushing participants to create the perfect joint in the shortest time possible.
The inaugural season will include a global online tournament, open to cannabis enthusiasts from around the world, alongside a series of live events across various California venues. Sponsored by RAW Rolling Papers, the competition will span four months and culminate in a championship final featuring the 16 fastest joint-rollers.
Entry submissions began on Wednesday and will remain open until June 30. To participate, competitors must share a video of themselves rolling a one-gram joint, starting with whole cannabis buds, on platforms like X or YouTube using the hashtag #rollingderby.
Dean Arbit, CEO of bud.com, the e-commerce platform organizing the event, stated, “The Rolling Derby turns what happens every day in millions of homes into a spectator sport that celebrates real craftsmanship.” He emphasized that the competition is not solely about speed but also aims to recognize the skill involved in rolling joints.
The Rolling Derby also offers a chance for cannabis brands to engage with consumers, as participants will use their products during the competition. Josh Kesselman, founder of RAW Rolling Papers, expressed excitement about the event, saying, “The Rolling Derby celebrates the real artistry of rolling culture, and that is what RAW is all about.” He noted that RAW Rolling Papers has worked for two decades to be synonymous with rolling excellence and supports the culture that has backed the brand since its inception.
As the legalization of cannabis continues to expand across the United States, brands are exploring creative promotional strategies. For instance, Toker’s Guide recently sought experienced cannabis consumers in multiple states to sample and review products. Additionally, DaySavers announced a program last year paying volunteers $4.20 to smoke and provide feedback on pre-rolled joints, while also advertising for a social media creator position with a salary of $70,420 plus perks.
High-profile figures, including Snoop Dogg, have also acknowledged the demand for skilled joint-rollers, with Snoop reportedly paying someone $40,000 to $50,000 annually to ensure he always has blunts available.
While the California State Fair will not host a speed-rolling competition, it will feature a cannabis exhibit and competition this year, expanding award categories to reflect the diverse state market. The Rolling Derby exemplifies the growing interest in cannabis culture and the potential for innovative events within the industry.
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