CAMANO, JUNE 13th: The Stanwood Camano Soap Box Derby is returning for it’s 18th year this Saturday, June 14th at Arrowhead Ranch on Camano Island. Children ages 7-19 have the opportunity to build and race an official soap box car. Winners of the Derby go on to race at the All-American Soap Box Derby World Championship in Akron, Ohio.
Unlike other sports where parents or mentors sit on the sidelines, Soap Box Racing involves everyone. Drivers and their Car Handler work closely together to get their car ready to race, strategize the best lines to drive, make car adjustments, and work on driving ability.
Drivers and Car Handlers are also expected to build their car alongside other drivers, with help available from the Tech Team. Car kit’s are available to loan for Drivers and Handles or they can bring their own official car kit, though those must be approved by the official Tech Team. Attending build clinics is required for all drivers.
This year, the derby will host all 3 Divisions: Stock, Super Stock, and Masters. Trophies are awarded for 1st through 8th place in all divisions. The 1st place winner in each division will earn their spot to represent the Stanwood Camano Island area in the 87th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio. The International Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio, is the official sanctioning body of Soap Box Derby racing and host of the annual Soap Box Derby World Championships. This youth gravity racing program has been inspiring new generations of champions since 1934. Scholarships are even available for racers facing financial hardships that could be a barrier to entry.
The Arrowhead Ranch Camano is proud to be hosting the derby and boasts a state-of-the-art Soap Box Derby track, meticulously designed for safety, visibility, and exhilarating competition. The track is 1,000 feet long with 2,000 feet of guardrail built to keep racers safe as they race the track.
The June 14th derby will feature tons of food and drink options, including a Dick’s drive-In truck, shaved ice, kettle corn, a beer garden and in-house candy shop. To learn more, visit the Arrowhead Ranch Camano website here.
