|
|
||
Preparations for local soapbox derby are under way Date published: 3/26/2009
By COLLETTE CAPRARA FOR THE FREE LANCE-STAR What has 600 wheels and is powered by 150 adults? That would be the 2009 Rappahannock Regional Soap Box Derby, The Free Lance-Star Classic, for which registration is currently under way. Last year, more than 150 boys and girls, ages 9 through 17, participated in the Fredericksburg race, meriting it recognition as the largest local race in the world for the sixth straight year. The 150 adults are community volunteers, who play a role in making the event possible. "We certainly have the support and help of the city's parks and recreation department, which is invaluable, but the derby is largely a volunteer effort," said Alvin Staples, who has served as director of the local race since 1999. "And, when you look down the list of volunteers, the range of people is amazing. These volunteers invest so much of their time because they're enthusiastic about the derby: They know what it is, they love it, and they know how good it is for the community." Staples notes that on the day of the race, the variety of attendees is impressive. "Every type of person, from every walk of life, is either there helping or they're there with their kids." For Staples, the race is a family affair: His wife, Michele, delivers forms and updates and coordinates the pre-race impoundment of the cars; his son, Travis, is among the racers and daughters Lindsey and Sarah, who formerly raced, now volunteer for the event. The "retired" racers who volunteer range from Darrell Hayden, who raced in the 1950s, to Nick Vossenberg, who won the stock car class in 2003. "It's great that the former racers come back and take on the role of the adults, completing the cycle," said Staples. "Past racers are so knowledgeable about the derby, and have so much experience, that they are some of the best people that we have in the organization." Registration for the 2009 Derby, which will be held on June 13, is currently under way. Participants are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. Those who register will receive updates, newsletters and notifications regarding car clinics.
Read more stories about Fredericksburg Date published: 3/26/2009
1. Be respectful. No personal attacks.
|
|
|||||||||||||||
