Akron hosts 88th All-American Soap Box Derby with international competitors

The 88th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby took place in Akron on July 18, drawing participants from around the world. Affected by smoke from Canadian wildfires, prior events on July 17 were canceled, but racers proceeded with morning alignment and wheel selection activities. Competitors included children from Japan, as well as local contestants like 11-year-old Lynel Lee from Staten Island, New York, who attended with his family. The event featured nearly 300 racers and included various car designs, with heats typically lasting 27-29 seconds. Participants qualified through local races or points earned in the derby’s rally program.

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