What is the history of the cake race at Davidson?
The race was established in 1930 by Davidson track Coach Pete Whittle; his goal was to uncover hidden talent in the incoming freshmen class and ask them to come out for the track team. Fortunately, Coach Whittle knew that forcing the freshmen class to run almost two-miles could not be done without an incentive, and that is where the cake in Cake Race comes in. Winners of the race are awarded cakes donated by people in the Davidson Community. This now-voluntary race has been held every year (except 1931-1933, 1941-1949, and 1972) and has become a trademark of Davidson College and its incoming freshmen.
For more information, please explore these resources:
- Cake Race Encyclopedia Entry
- Cake Race - Winner Encyclopedia Entry
- Around the D Blog Posts: “Cake Races and Cookbooks” and “Pumpkin Dessert Squares”
- November 6, 1930 and November 13, 1930 issues of The Davidsonian