FirstEnergyAll-American Soap Box Derby Countdown

Dayton Area Soap Box Derby

Soap box derby differs from other sports because it provides a unique lifelong advantage by combining a STEM learning component (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) with competition, sportsmanship and the discipline needed to achieve excellence.  Derby is a learning sport.  

The vision of the Dayton Area Soap Box Derby organization is focused on youth learning:

To re-establish soap box derby programs for Dayton area youth so they can apply hands-on application of STEM principles in a safe, fun and engaging environment.

The values of the Dayton Area Soap Box Derby organization mirror those of the International Soap Box Derby organization with a focus on local Dayton area youth.  The following are core values:

  • Youth education and leadership development
  • Safety, honesty, integrity and perseverance
  • Innovation and entrepreneurship
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Mentoring
  • Volunteerism
  • Commitment to the Dayton area community

A message from the All-American Soap Box Derby

The Soap Box Derby is a youth racing program which has run nationally since 1934. World Championship finals are held each July at Derby Downs in Akron, Ohio.

The idea of the Soap Box Derby grew out of a photographic assignment of Dayton, Ohio, newsman Myron Scott. He covered a race of boy-built cars in his home community and was so impressed with this event that he acquired a copyright for the idea and began development of a similar program on a national scale.


National Partners

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