6 from Valley to be in top Soap Box race

staff report

YOUNGSTOWN — Six Youngstown-area drivers will take part in the 71st annual All-American Soap Box Derby World Championship on Saturday in Akron.

About 550 winners of local races from 47 states and Canada, Germany and New Zealand will participate in the event, said Dave Berndt, board member of the Greater Youngstown Area Soap Box Derby Association.

This year the six Youngstown-area racers are:

Zachary Krohn, 9, of Austintown, Stock champion.

Joe Puntel, 12, Austintown, Super Stock champion.

Johanna Kuebler, 16, Berlin Center, Masters Rally champion.

Julia Castner, 10, Hubbard, Stock Rally champion.

Jenn Rodway, 19, Boardman, Ultimate Speed champion.

Jamie Berndt, 18, Canfield, Ultimate Speed champion.

Dave Berndt said since Youngstown began its soap box derby in 1934, only three racers have placed in a championship.

In 2005, Jamie Berndt placed second in the Stock Rally division, and in 2007 she placed third in the Masters Rally division.

In 2006, Alexandria Torigno, 17, of Campbell placed third in the Masters Rally division.

Racing will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday and should end around 5 p.m. with the awards presentation immediately following.