Veterans groups get on track for Columbiana soap box derby

The rain date is June 22.
By NANCY TULLIS
VINDICATOR SALEM BUREAU
COLUMBIANA -- The ninth annual Super Kids Classic soap box derby will be at noon next Saturday on Park Avenue in front of Firestone Park.
Betty Hincliffe, a parent volunteer, said 24 racers will compete in the double-elimination event.
The races take about four hours. In the event of rain, the race will take place June 22.
Local Vietnam Veterans of America and VFW posts sponsor the Super Kids Classic for disabled children 9 to 16.
Some children race alone, while others compete in cars with two seats so there is room for a "ghost" driver if the racers are not able to operate the car.
Hincliffe said many of the children have cerebral palsy, which limits their strength and muscle control.
The disease, however, does not dampen their spirits.
"It is something to see the smiles on those kids' faces when they get to the bottom of the hill," she said.
"I think they like the ride back up the hill just as much. After their races we take them back up the hill in a pickup truck. They have a great time waving and laughing and honking the horn."
Besides the races there are other activities for the racers, including a dance and an awards banquet.
All participants receive trophies.
Sponsors provide the cars. A practice session took place in May.