Sports are a beneficial activity for the body, and despite the variety of types and forms, what distinguishes them most is that they are accessible to everyone: men, women, and children. Even infants had their share in participating through many sports events, the most notable of which were “baby races” or as they were known, “Diaper Derbies.” These were held annually during the 1940s and 1950s under the auspices of the National Diaper Service at the Exhibition Grounds in New Jersey, USA.

Despite the unusual nature of the race, there was no need for special skills to participate. Baby carriages covered in diapers were simply lined up at the starting gate by their parents, usually their mothers. Once the race began, the infants were placed on the track and encouraged to crawl to the finish line. Since babies are naturally unpredictable, the finish line was designed to be as appealing as possible, lined with stuffed bears, bunny dolls, dogs, and other animals that children love.

To make things more interesting, each participating child was given a special nickname. For example, one child was called “Donut Dan,” while another was named “Pretzel Pender.” Regardless of who reached the finish line first, there were no losers in this delightful competition. Almost every child received the stuffed animal they crawled towards at the finish line to take home. However, the winner was distinguished from the others by receiving more than just a toy—a $50 savings bond and a special crown to wear as the race champion. It should be noted that any child who stood up and walked during the race was immediately disqualified.

The “Diaper Derby” was charming due to the babies’ behavior as they competed to reach the finish line. Sometimes, the babies would fall asleep before reaching the end, while at other times, they would stand up and leave the track without heeding their mothers’ pleas to continue. These are some photos from those events.