Volunteers, sponsors and competitors, gear up as the Spring Blue Ridge Soap Box Derby nears their April 30 date.
Co-organizer Mike Sullivan said the derby is “community driven for locals” and is an opportunity for children and teens to engage in an activity outside of video games or cell phones.
In addition, funds raised during the spring derby will go toward Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics education in the Fannin County School System.
To make the event possible, volunteers, sponsors and competitors are all needed. The event will be held at Fannin County Middle School in Blue Ridge.
Volunteers do a little bit of everything, and those with able bodies are encouraged to help with the loading and unloading of cars.
On the other hand, sponsorship is organized in fivetiers: executive, diamond, gold, silver and bronze. The deadline to sponsor is April 15.
Executive sponsorship requires a $1,000 donation, and the cost of the other tiers decline at each level.
Vehicle sponsorship is also an option for $175 or $350.
Keep in mind that the Blue Ridge Soapbox Derby is a registerd 501c3 non-profit organization, so donations are tax deductible.
Contact Sullivan at 919-273-8315 or email palledine@hotmail.com to volunteer or for more information on sponsorship; or, call Brian Higgins at 706-455-9829 or email woodworkingace@yahoo.com.
Registration for competitors is also required by April 15 along with a $20 registration fee.
Over $1,000 in cash prizes will be handed out to the top racers.
This season, there will be three race categories: classic cars for ages 7 to 12, classic cars for ages 13 and up, and outlaws for ages 7 and up.
Classic cars are designed using a stock kit and have no modifications, while outlaw cars may be designed with modifications such as wheels or body style.
Email brsoapboxderby@gmail.com to register.