All-American Soap Box Derby

Race Week Activities

Activities begin on Monday of AASBD Race Week. As each of the Local and Rally Champions arrive, they are individually driven by police escort to the welcoming ceremonies area. The Derby band strikes up a tune and an announcer introduces the Champion to the crowd. After signing in on the official entry board, the Champ will have the opportunity to throw souvenirs from his/her city to the awaiting crowd.

It is a tradition for champs to bring souvenirs with them to trade with the other champions and families. The most popular item is a personalized pin-on button displaying the champion's photo, name, and race city.

Once the family checks in, they will receive their race week packets. Information in the packet will let them know if they have earned a VIP or if repairs are required, among various other event information.

Many special activities are planned throughout the week for both champion's and families. Clinics and meetings will be scheduled for parents and Local directors to instruct them in car construction and race operations. There are also many attractions in the Akron area.

All car repairs are performed on Tuesday and must be completed within the time allotted for the required repairs. One car handler will be permitted to assist the champ with their repairs. Official Derby parts may be purchased at topside, if needed. All Champions must bring their own tools and supplies for the repairs. Weight, brake, and vision testing will also be performed on Tuesday. At the All-American, racers race three at a time, rather than two at a time as in local racing. The increased number is due to the amount of racers that must go over the hill in one day.

On Wednesday racers take a test run and will perform alignment checks. Two adults are permitted to assist the champion with alignment. All work must be completed within a pre-announced time period and all champions must bring their own tools.

Thursday -is a fun day for all champions - the day off!!

Friday- is the National Super Kids Race.

 Saturday is the "big day." The activities start very early with champ check-in and the opening ceremonies. The race is a single-elimination race where three cars race against each other at the same time. The winner of each race advances in the bracket. Following the race, all champions attend an awards ceremony fit for a Champion. Many times, the awards ceremony is the highlight of the week for the champions. Win or lose, all racers leave Akron as a Champ