11-year-old Somerset County boy wins title of Mini Master Model Builder at LEGOLAND Discovery Center New Jersey
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ (Bergen County) – In an impressive display of creativity, 11-year-old Derek Menzin from Bridgewater Township, has been crowned New Jersey’s 2025 Mini Master Model Builder after crafting a one-of-a-kind LEGO® race car.
The friendly competition, hosted by LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, brought together New Jersey’s best young builders to compete for the coveted title. Derek’s unique creation stood out among the top 7 contestants.
Derek was declared the champion at the live build challenge on Wednesday, April 2, 2025. He completed an original Transformer Race Car build in just 75 minutes based on the theme “Coolest Race Cars.” To make the achievement even more special, Derek celebrated his birthday on the same day!
Now, all eyes are on Derek as he prepares for the next step – competing for the title of Global Mini Master Model Builder. He will face off with Mini Master Model Builders from around the world, each tasked with building a creation that best represents their hometown or city.
