Hosted by the Western Pennsylvania Soap Box Derby, the event begins at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 7 on 14th Street in Ambridge. Champions are expected to be crowned at 3 p.m.
Racers from four counties--Beaver, Butler, Lawrence and Mercer--will be competing for a chance to have their expenses paid to the 75th International All American Soap Box Derby Annual Race in Akron, Ohio where they will compete in July against almost 600 racers from around the world.
Soap box derby racers range in age from 7 to 17 and will compete in two classes. Prize money will also be awarded to the winners and all participants will receive a gift bag.
After a decades long hiatus from many years of running in Ambridge, this will be the seventh straight year that WPSBD has had the race in Ambridge. Ambridge is one of a couple hundred cities in the world that host qualifying races. Major sponsors are Barberry Farms of Sewickley and the Polish Falcons of America.
New this year will be a car cruise on 14th St. Saturday during the race starting at noon.
“We are hoping for a bright sunny day for the young kids to race and to bring out some beautiful old cars to view.” Trecha said. “We are fortunate to have DJ Uncle Al provide his talents to make for a more exciting weekend. We have him to thank for taking charge of this endeavor.”
This year, WPSBD is also hosting a picnic and awards ceremony a week after the race. The ceremony is at 4 p.m. Saturday, June 14 at the Polish Falcons on Eighth Street in Ambridge.
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