Cannabis culture is entering an exciting new era with the launch of the Rolling Derby, the world’s first-ever global joint rolling championship. This innovative event is transforming the everyday act of rolling a joint—a skill practiced by millions—into a thrilling spectator sport that celebrates speed, artistry, and community.
The Birth of a New Cannabis Tradition
Launched by industry veterans, the Rolling Derby puts a well-deserved spotlight on the art and skill of joint rolling. Their vision was to create a platform where the best rollers from around the globe could compete, share their techniques, and gain recognition for their unique skills. By turning joint rolling into a competition, the Rolling Derby is not only elevating a core element of cannabis culture but also bringing together enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds to celebrate their shared passion.
How the Competition Works
The Rolling Derby is open to adults aged 21 and older, and it offers both virtual and in-person opportunities to participate. The competition is structured in several stages to ensure that everyone, from casual hobbyists to seasoned experts, has a chance to showcase their talent.
Online Submission
The entry process is simple: just film yourself rolling a one-gram joint, starting from scratch with whole cannabis nugs. The process must be unedited and clearly show every step, from breaking down the flower to sealing the finished joint. This ensures that the competition is fair and that each roller’s technique can be properly judged. Videos should be posted on social media platforms X (formerly Twitter) or YouTube, accompanied by the hashtag #rollingderby. The entry window is open from May 28 to June 30, 2025—jump in before it closes!
Live Events across California
In addition to the online competition, the Rolling Derby will host a series of live tournaments at popular venues across California. These events will allow fans to watch the action up close, cheer for their favorite competitors, and experience the excitement firsthand. The live aspect adds a new level of intensity and community spirit, as participant’s race against the clock in front of an enthusiastic audience.
The Road to the Championship
All submitted videos will be reviewed, and the fastest, most skillful rollers will advance to the next round. The top 16 joint rollers will earn a spot in the championship finals, where they will compete for prizes and the prestigious title of Rolling Derby Champion. The entire process spans four months, building anticipation and allowing the cannabis community to follow their favorite competitors as they progress through the tournament.
More than Just Speed: Celebrating Craft and Culture
While speed is an important factor in the Rolling Derby, the competition is also about recognizing the artistry and craftsmanship involved in rolling the perfect joint. Dean Arbit, CEO of bud.com and organizer of the event, emphasizes that this is about more than just racing against the clock. “Rolling isn’t just a habit—it’s a tradition that runs through cannabis culture,” Arbit explains. “We’re elevating it to highlight the serious skill and craftsmanship it takes. This competition honors the true artistry behind the craft, not just who’s fastest.
Josh Kesselman, the founder and CEO of RAW Rolling Papers—the event’s main sponsor—echoes this sentiment. “Rolling is an art, and The Rolling Derby brings that to the forefront — exactly what RAW® has always been about. After two decades of championing quality and craftsmanship, we’re excited to support the culture that’s supported us from the beginning.” “We all get higher together!”
Opportunities for Brands and the Cannabis Industry
Beyond the competition, the Rolling Derby gives cannabis brands a fresh way to interact and engage with fans in a meaningful way. As participants use various rolling papers, grinders, and cannabis strains during the competition, brands can showcase their products to a passionate and engaged audience. This direct connection helps brands build loyalty and credibility within the community while supporting a positive, skill-based event.
A New Chapter in Cannabis Events
The Rolling Derby is part of a broader trend of creative cannabis events and promotions. As legalization spreads, companies are finding new ways to reach consumers and celebrate cannabis culture. In recent years, brands have offered everything from paid product testing jobs to high-profile rolling gigs—such as Snoop Dogg’s personal blunt roller, who reportedly earns up to $50,000 a year.
The Rolling Derby stands out by focusing on skill and community rather than just consumption. It provides a platform for cannabis enthusiasts to connect, learn from each other, and celebrate their shared interests in a fun and inclusive environment.
Looking Ahead
As the Rolling Derby kicks off its inaugural season, excitement is building across the cannabis world. The competition promises to shine a light on the unsung heroes of cannabis culture—the skilled rollers who make every session possible. By turning joint rolling into a public celebration, the Rolling Derby is helping to break down old stereotypes and showcase the creativity, precision, and passion that define today’s cannabis community.
Whether you’re a seasoned roller, a curious newcomer, or simply a fan of innovative events, the Rolling Derby is set to be a highlight of the year. With its blend of competition, artistry, and community spirit, this championship is not just a contest—it’s a celebration of everything that makes cannabis culture unique and vibrant.
Source:-
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/rolling-derby-launches-first-ever-120300282.html
https://www.reddit.com/r/TLRY/comments/1kxtaa2/firstever_marijuana_speedrolling_competition/