All-American Soap Box Derby World Championships set for July 17-23 in Akron

AKRON, Ohio – In less than two weeks, the best gravity racers in the world ages 7-20 will come to Akron to roll down the 989-foot Derby Downs Track at speeds of 30 mph in the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby World Championships.

It’s the 84th running of the event, which is scheduled for July 17-23.

The International Soap Box Derby (ISBD) has made a number of improvements to the track and more are in the works. Last year, the ISBD repaved the race track and installed a new sidewalk along the track. Signage was also added throughout the grounds. This year, the organization is expanding its science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programming for area students thanks to a $500,000 State of Ohio capital improvements grant, according to a news release.

“Going forward, Derby Downs becomes more appealing and efficient for Soap Box Derby participants, their families, race officials and other visitors,” ISBD President and CEO Mark Gerberich said in a news release. “In addition, these improvements will enable us to expand our education programs for STEM students from the Akron area, and elsewhere in Ohio and from other states.”

Advance tickets are $5 and can be purchased online. Tickets at the gate are $8. Past champions, car handlers and volunteers do not need tickets to enter but must have their badge.

The full schedule:

Monday, July 18

Tuesday, July 19

Wednesday, July 20

Thursday, July 21

Friday, July 22

Saturday, July 23

An awards ceremony will be held following the races at the Akron Civic Theatre in downtown Akron.

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