Racers and spectators invited to Soap Box Derby

Clarendon's 5th annual Soapbox Car Race will be held on Saturday, June 5. Organizers say this is an event that promotes positive youth development, as well as family and community involvement. The family builds the car together and then will spend the race day together, either working as the "pit crew" for the racer or as spectators cheering from the sidelines. Each racer has secured a sponsor to help with the cost of the Derby Kit and registration fees. Many local businesses have shown their generosity by being car sponsors or event/product sponsors. Sponsors' names will be displayed on the cars, as well as on sponsor signs throughout the event.

Although many of the 66 racers this year are from the Clarendon/Holley area, there are many racers from Brockport, Spencerport, Churchville, Albion and other areas. The race is open to anyone who wants to participate. There are four youth divisions; Division I - ages 8-10 and Division II ages 11-16 and Division III Heavyweight (ages 8-16 not eligible for Div. I or II), Division III - Handicapped (ages 8-16 physically impaired).

This is the third year with an adult division (ages over 16 years) and organizers say they look forward to an assortment of cars from the serious to the hilarious. Friday prior to the race, racers dressed in their race gear will bring their cars to the official weigh-in where their cars will be checked in and impounded. Photos of the racers, their cars and sponsor signs will be taken and will be on display at the race. Race day will involve trial runs for each car and a double elimination race - Race to win, Race to place.

Army National Guard 1427th Transportation Company will be on site and helping at Town of Clarendon's 5th Annual Soapbox Race on Saturday, June 5, Opening Ceremony at 11 a.m. The uniformed soldiers will help transport the impounded race cars in their vehicles to the site, participate in the opening ceremony and will help all day during the race. The soldiers and their vehicles will be on hand for the families to review.

The race location is South Manning Road off of Route 31A (between Routes 237 and 98) Look for signs the day of the race. Local scout and school groups will offer food and refreshments.

For information call Town of Clarendon 638-6371 extension 100; Susan Colby at 638-5416; or Debbie Day at 585-638-6245.