AKRON, Ohio — For many years, Soap Box Derby races have been held in communities across the United States, including right here in Akron.
This Saturday, July 22, more than 300 boys and girls from around the United States and from Canada and Japan will compete in the 85th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby at Akron's Derby Downs.
“We are thrilled to welcome the racers and their families to Akron for a week of exciting activities leading up to the world championships at the iconic Derby Downs,” said Bret Treier, board chairman of International Soap Box Derby. “They will be competing for a share of $36,000 in Bill Speeg Memorial Fund scholarships.”
The youth competing in the event earned a spot in the world championships by winning local Soap Box Derby races in their hometowns or by accumulating points in a series of rally competitions held in various cities since last fall.
Below is a list of full events taking place throughout the weekend:
Friday, July 21
- 8 a.m. Alignment/Wheel Selection/Weigh-In For ALL RACERS at Topside 8 a.m. – Local Masters
- 9 a.m. SuperKids Classic
- 9 a.m. – Rally Masters
- 10 a.m. – Local Super Stock
- 11 a.m. - Rally Super Stock
- 12 p.m. Local Stock
- 1 p.m. – Rally Stock
Saturday, July 22
- 8 a.m. – Opening ceremonies
- 8:30 a.m. – First heat of the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby
- 2 p.m. – Championship heats begin (Approximately)
- 7 p.m. - Awards Ceremony
- Akron Civic Theatre, 182 S. Main St., Downtown Akron
Sunday, July 23, 8 a.m. – Noon (Topside)
- Race week photos on display and sale
- Racer crating/pickup
- Parts sales
Tickets for the event can be purchased HERE and more information can be found at https://aasbd.soapboxderby.org/
