The FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby is coming to Ohio next week. (Photo provided)

AKRON, Ohio – Beginning the week of July 15, more than 400 boys and girls ages 7 through 20 will travel to Akron to represent their home communities and compete in the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby in their gravity-powered race cars.

Contestants and their families will travel from cities throughout the United States, Canada and Japan to participate in this year’s event for the chance to win $36,000 in college scholarships.

Race week kicks off on Monday July 15, with the Parade of Champions and Opening Ceremonies in downtown Akron, followed by a week of race-related activities at Derby Downs, leading up to the 82nd All-American World Championships on Saturday, July 20.

Fans can watch the races live on Saturday by visiting: http://aasbd.soapboxderby.org/.

A schedule of events for the soapbox derby include:

Monday, July 15
12-3:30 p.m.: Parade of Champions on Main Street (Canal Park to Lock 3) and Opening Ceremonies (Lock 3) in downtown Akron

Tuesday, July 16 and Wednesday, July 17
8 a.m. – 2 p.m.: AAA Akron Motor Club Local Challenge and Rally Challenge races

Thursday, July 18
3-7 p.m.: Topside Show open house to view all competing Soap Box Derby race cars and walk through tours of the Hall of Fame and Museum

3-5 p.m.: Open Hill – Drive an adult-sized racecar down the 989-foot Derby Downs track

Friday, July 19
8 a.m. – 3 p.m.: National Super Kids Classic (For special needs children)

Saturday, July 20
8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.: 82nd FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby
7 p.m.: Awards Ceremony (Akron Civic Theatre)

LOCATION
Derby Downs
1000 George Washington Boulevard
Akron, Ohio 44312

Along George Washington Boulevard, just north of Rt. 224 in the southeast area of Akron; adjacent to Akron Fulton International Airport.