AKRON, Ohio — The 84th annual All-American Soap Box Derby race runs all-week long. 

What You Need To Know

  • All-American will run from July 20 until July 24 

  • The race comprises more than 400 qualifiers from 40 different states and several foreign countries 

  • Racers must qualify for All-American by winning their local race or accumulating points in the rally program.

  • Derby cars must be dropped off prior to racing for inspection. 

In Akron, families put on the finishing touches on their derby cars before being sent down the track. All teams are hoping to bring home the trophy. David Case and his daughter, Alyssa Case, have been racing for a few years now. Alyssa won third in the challengers race and sixth in the world championship race. 

For the Case family, racing is something that has been passed down through the generations.

“It all started with grandpa,” David said. “Me and grandpa, we used to race stock cars back in the day out of Barberton. And then when the kids came around, they wanted to race also.”

Alyssa has been racing derby cars since she was seven. Now at 12, she is ready, but also anxious for the week ahead. 

“I’m excited. I'm kind of nervous, but I'm excited, you know, like not everybody gets to do this and not everybody makes it that far,” explained Alyssa. “So I'm really thankful for getting this far, honestly.”

In order to compete in the All-American race, you must pre-quality by winning the local race or by earning points in the rally program. 

The FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby will take place during the week of July 20 through July 24. For the full list of events, click here.