Super kids hold their own derby

COLUMBIANA -- Cold rain and wind didn't dampen the spirits of 24 mentally and physically challenged children who had their own soap box derby Saturday.
The ninth annual Super Kids Classic on Park Avenue near Firestone Park drew 24 racers and about 12 "ghost riders," who control steering and brakes for racers who can't do it on their own.
Winning the single-car category was Ethan Kelly, 11, of Salem, sponsored by VFW Post 892 in Salem. His parents are Michelle and Tom Kelly.
Second place in the single-car category went to Robert Mosser, 14, of North Lima, sponsored by Rag Tooling Co. of Goshen Township. His parents are Becky and Paul Hinchcliffe.
In the dual-race category, first place went to Jason Guy, 16, of Columbiana, with ghost rider Johnathan Guy. He was sponsored by the Counseling Center of Columbiana County. His parents are Lori and Jeff Guy.
Placing second in the dual-race category was Jordan Bertolette, 11, of Columbiana, with ghost rider Colton Bertolette. She was sponsored by Peters Off Road Inc. of Salem. Her parents are Laura and Jamie Bertolette.
"Even though we have first and second place, all of our kids are winners, and they all get trophies," said Wende Lodge, whose son participated in the event.
She said committee members, racers and parents braved it through "miserable" weather. But, despite the weather, the kids had fun. "That's all that matters," Lodge said.