Souderton’s Soap Box Derby is True Family Fun

The photos from the All-American Soap Box Derby in Souderton on June 6 tell the story of a well-loved family sport in the community. Over 200 spectators lined Main Street to cheer on more than 70 kids as they raced down the hill. The event helps strengthen bonds between children and their parents, who are very involved in the weekend-long race, and among families.

“There is no other sport where your family gets to spend the entire day together,” said Ken Fleck, president of the Indian Valley Soap Box Association. “The friendships you form and the quality time you spend with your family can’t be reached through any other sport or activity. You don’t just drop of your children at a race—parents spend the entire day at the race with their kids.”

According to Fleck, Soap box racing requires the whole family to get involved. Families spend time together before the race, and stick around to help and support the friends they’ve made in the tight-knit Indian Valley Soap Box Association (IVSBA). Families often attend races 2 to 3 times a month, which last all day for both weekend days. “It’s like you’re a part of one huge extended family when you’re at the races,” said Fleck. “Participating in soap box racing means commitment to the sport, and to having fun as a family.”

The IVSBA 2009 champions are Alex Motto, in the stock division (ages 8 to 13), and Allyson Pike, in the super stock division (ages 10 to 17). They will go on to the national-level championship race in Akron, Ohio, during the week of July 19. For more information about the IVSBA and to join, visit www.ivsba.wetpaint.com. Also, check out the All-American Soap Box Derby Web site for more on the interesting history of the derby, which has run nationally since 1934.