Randy Belding is an inventor and a dad. Luckily for his kids and thousands of other children across the country, his creativity inspired him to create BluTrack, which was one of the top 22 toys for the December 2007 "Better Homes and Gardens" Gift Buying Guide. LoveToKnowKids asked Randy to share some information on this wonderful toy.
What exactly is BluTrack?
BluTrack is dual lane track system that is designed to have as few parts as possible and for its flexibility which allows for a wide variety of racing opportunities.
How did you come up with the idea?
Several years ago my son purchased a traditional system that was designed to do two loops and we just could not get it to work so we headed to the workshop to make some modifications. Ninety minutes later we got it to work and he sent the car down twice and went on to something else. That's when it dawned on me that he got so much enjoyment out of the designing and problem solving process. "Dad, what if we did this, would that work?" questions and the creativity that followed were the foundation of BluTrack.
What ages would enjoy BluTrack?
Three years old and above.
What are some ideas for playing with BluTrack?
We really encourage the parents to let the children determine the how the track is set up and to join in after some time has passed. Children really do have creative ideas that can be encouraged during play. From personal experience and shared comments, we know families have figured out how to make multiple loops, curves and jumps all work. We've seen neat track designs using everyday items such as books, shoes, chairs and pillows. Play has also included the track running from upstairs to downstairs, from bunk beds to floors, and from living rooms to kitchens. Outside play has involved running the track down deck stairs, using it on sidewalks or hills in lawns, and even down slides. We've seen kids add water and race toothpicks and plastic bottle caps as well as racing toy people or characters. Grandparents have shared neat stories of what their grandchildren have come up with in short amounts of time.
Approximately how much money would parents need to spend for their kids to enjoy Blutrack?
Our 18 ft starter kits start at around $40.00.
What kind of cars can kids use on Blutrack?
You can use any 1/64th scale car but we found that Darda and Hot wheels® work the best.
Will you be adding any other products/features, etc.?
Yes, we are in the process of testing our finishing line and starter gate systems. We expect them to be available by June of 08.
Can the BluTrack be expanded?
Yes, we sell 6 foot extensions. Unlike traditional systems that use a peg to hold track sections together, BluTrack uses an adhesive system to connect lengths of track together. Simply peel, stick and rub. Once lengths are assembled, simply coil up BluTrack to store.
Has BluTrack won any awards?
Yes, BluTrack has earned several awards including the I-Parenting award, the Kids at Play award, and was selected by child testers as one of the top 22 toys for the December 2007 Better Homes and Gardens Gift Buying Guide.
Where is BluTrack manufactured?
Our manufacturing mission is to provide U.S. based manufacturing companies every opportunity to gain and retain our business. Given a level playing field, we believe that US based workers will provide us with a safe quality product at a competitive price.
Every component is purchased, manufactured, assembled and packaged in the United States except for some ramp styles. Those ramps are sourced from a United States company that may choose to manufacture overseas. Some companies' sites involved with BluTrack include Pawling, New York, Farmingdale, New York, Hatboro, Pennsylvania, Fremont, Nebraska, Des Moines, Iowa, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and Pella, Iowa.
Where can we buy BluTrack?
BluTrack is sold through a vast network of independent toy retailers around the country and on the BluTrack website.
