Soap Box Derby
Saturday, September 20
10 a.m. – Registration
10 to 11:30 a.m. – Inspection and Practice
11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. – Judging (non-racing)
12:15 to 1 p.m. – Lunch
1 to 4 p.m. – Racing
For a man who refuses to grow up, the soap box derby is the perfect activity to do with your kids. Just ask Travis Davis.
“You take a piece of plywood, start with a frame and build a shell according to the size of the individual and go from there,” says Davis, who built his first soap box car when he was in his 20s, and whose garage and home are full of toys with engines. The Dashwood Optimists, who will host the event, approached him to seek his input on a community event, and he suggested the derby.
“So far I’ve had 12 people call me,” he says noting Matt Hayter is also selling kits.
For $25, the Optimists provide car builders with wheels, axles, mounting brackets and a $5 gift certificate for RONA.
Two drivers will begin on an 8’ ramp and race down a hill. Top speed is about 15 mph, Davis says.
“It feels like you’re going down a hill in a real car,” says Ethan, 9, whose car is shaped like a shark. Sister Emily, 10, will be driving a miniature version of Herbie the Love Bug.
“Weight is a major factor,” Davis says. “The lighter your car, the better off you are. We have a weight limit up to 200 lbs. The lighter the car and the child, the faster you will go.
“It’s to bring the community closer together,” he adds, “so we have more fellowship and have a good time. Everyone’s welcome to come out, and we hope to do it every year.”
Formore information, contact Matt Hayter at 519-237-3731 or Davis at 519-237-3152.