Hoyer Announces Passage of Bill Allowing for Greater Washington-Area Soap Box Derby
Hoyer-Sponsored Resolution Allows for 70th Running of Derby on Capitol Grounds on June 18
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, the House of Representatives approved a resolution sponsored by Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) to allow the 70th Annual Greater Washington Soap Box Derby to be held on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol on Saturday, June 18, on Constitution Avenue, NW, between New Jersey and Louisiana Avenues. This is the 20th year Hoyer has sponsored the resolution, which draws youth from around the National Capital Region to compete in the race.
"I am proud to sponsor the legislation that will allow for 70th Annual Greater Washington Soap Box Derby, which has been coined as ‘the greatest amateur racing event in the world,'" said Congressman Hoyer. "June's race will be the continuation of a proud tradition for our country and its capital, and for all of this year's racers who have worked so hard preparing for this event, I send them my best wishes for a safe and enjoyable competition."
On June 18, racers will compete in three divisions: Stock, Super Stock, and Masters. The local winner of each division will automatically qualify to compete with racers from around the world in the 74th All-American Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio on July 23rd.
The origin of soap box derby racing dates back to 1934 when a photographer for the Dayton Daily News, Myron E. Scott, saw boys racing engineless cars down a hill, inspiring him to organize a race and award the winner with a cup. While the first race took place in Dayton, OH, in the following years, the venue moved to Akron on account of the numerous hills. With the hard work of countless civic organizations, a permanent track site for the youth racing classic was created with the assistance of President Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal program the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
Soap box derby racing in the Nation's Capital has a long and rich tradition as well. In 1938, Norman Rocca beat out 223 other racers to win the inaugural Greater Washington Soap Box Derby, which was held on New Hampshire Avenue. Over seven decades, thousands of the region's young people have come to Washington to take their place in a great race and a great tradition. The location has since moved from the original site on New Hampshire Avenue to Capitol Hill.
For more information on the All-American Soap Box Derby, click here.