Quakertown Super Kids find success in soap box derby
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SALEM --Quakertown Super Kids, a soap box derby for special needs children was held in Salem June 3.
The winner of the race, William Champlin III, and two wild card picks, Darren Sims and Tucker Anderson, advanced to the National Super Kids Race held July 21 in Akron at Derby Downs.
Thirtry-five Super Kids from throughout the United States competed. The final six went on to race for the title. Sims and Anderson reached the final six, finishing second and third, respectively.
Sims told his grandmother that he wanted his competitor for first place to win because he was more disabled then he was and has a big heart.
Both boys were impressed by the big hill and how fast the cars raced down the track at Derby Downs.
Anderson was especially thrilled to have a police escort to the track for the final races. The escort met the final six racers at their hotel and, with lights flashing, headed a parade of Super Kid racers to the track.
Quakertown Super Kids has been racing in Salem since 2006. Every year the local event sends three racers to the finals --the winner and two wild card picks. The racers who attend the national race are provided with a two-night hotel stay, a banquet and spending money for their trip. Quakertown SKC, Inc. pays for expenses with sponsors support.
The local race in Salem is always held the first Saturday in June. It is open to special needs children between 7 and 18. The race is completely free and everything is provided: cars, helmets, T-shirts, trophies and lunch. All Super Kids race in double cars with a qualified teen as the pilot but the Super Kid is considered the racer. This year, the Salem High School Interact Club provided the pilots (ghost drivers.) The Salem High School football team, provided the muscle, helping to lift cars from the trailer used to bring the cars from the finish line back to the starting line.
Those interested in registering a child to race in 2024, should check out Facebook: Quakertown Super Kids Race or email race director: Janet Keene, janwel2002@yahoo.com