BLANHCESTER — The Blanchester Police Department will hold its second annual youth soap box derby on Saturday, Aug. 11 — and beginning this year, the race will be known as “the Vallee Classic” in honor of the late Dr. Richard and Mrs. Shirley Vallee, who gave so much to the community.
“Last year around 25 local children raced in the derby,” said Police Chief Scott Reinbolt. “We hope this year’s event will draw even more racers.”
Test runs will begin at 9 a.m. with racing starting at 10 a.m. The event will be held on North Columbus Street near LeAnn Court.
Children and teenagers ages 6-17 are eligible to participate. There is no requirement that participants reside in Blanchester.
All cars in the race must be home-made and must be propelled by gravity only. A complete rule book, including car specifications, is available in the Mayor’s Office, the desk at the BPA, and in the front lobby of the police station.
Two regulation soap box derby cars will be on display starting July 16 in the lobby of the First National Bank and at Village Hall.
Reinbolt said the bulk of the costs for this event are being paid for from the Citizens for Adequate Policing Trust Fund. Additional support is provided by the Blanchester Masonic Lodge, Curless Printing, BDK Feed, Hollon Towing, and Tylermade Home Remodeling.
