Color Me Rad
Derby Downs is no longer just about the FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby.
Since 1936, when the track was built, the main events were the annual championship race organized by the International Soap Box Derby (ISBD) and qualifying races hosted by the Akron Area Soap Box Derby. Now the ISBD is opening Derby Downs to public and private events that will be hosted at the world famous facility.
One of the highlighted events this year is the Color Me Rad 5K. On August 17, thousands of runners from the northeast Ohio area will race on a course at Derby Downs. From beginning to end, Color Bombs will be thrown at racers, covering them in a rainbow of paint. Registration opens March 13, 2013. To register, visit www.colormerad.com and enter the promo code “RADDERBY” to receive a 10% discount.
Derby Downs is not just for youngsters. It’s perfect for the young at heart who want to experience the thrill of the hill as well. The City of Akron’s Grandparents Day is on June 13. In early fall, the Derby will host a Senior Day.
In 2012, the Derby partnered with the International Downhill Racing Association. This partnership brought luge and skateboarding open hill events and competitions to Derby Downs. The Rubber City Gravity Games were held in September. More luge and skateboarding events will be held this year.
On April 20, an Autism Awareness Day will be co-hosted by the Autism Society of Greater Akron and the International Soap Box Derby. United Way will hold a Corporate Challenge Derby in September. Several local organizations have already secured the track and facilities for private events.
Annual Derby events are also being expanded. The fourth annual Gravity Racing Challenge school team event is on May 18. Over 1,000 students and educators are expected to attend. In June, two new STEM summer camps will be held for children ages 9-12. Information and registration forms can be found on www.aasbd.org.
The 76th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby Race Week festival will kick-off on Sunday, July 21 with a Derby Downs Dash 5K Run and Walk. More details on the 5K will be coming soon. On Saturday, July 27, over 500 champions from across the globe will race down the 989 foot track in the hopes of becoming a World Champion.
