Port Jervis Soap Box Derby is Sunday

Memorial scholarships to be awarded to three past drivers PORT JERVIS, N.Y. — The 2010 Port Jervis Soap Box Derby will be held this Sunday, June 13, on Sussex Street in Port Jervis. Racing begins at 9 a.m. and continues throughout the day. Opening ceremonies will be held at approximately 12:30 p.m. During opening ceremonies, three past soap box drivers will be awarded with the Elizabeth Ashley “Boo” Bisland Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship was set up in memory of derby driver Boo Bisland. Boo is remembered at each year’s derby as drivers race past her memorial tree on Sussex Street. The recipients were chosen from a field of 29 eligible former drivers. “The scholarship awardees exemplify what Soap Box is all about,” said derby director, Wayne Addy. “These kids work hard, volunteer their time and are great members of our community.” This year’s winners are Meghan McGregor, Ian Halloran and Lauren Hazen. All three kids are previous derby drivers and will use the funds to continue their education after graduation this spring. Recipients were chosen through an anonymous selection process by a scholarship selection committee. Funds for the scholarship are raised throughout the year including at an annual gala organized by the derby committee. As racing commences, local drivers ages 8-18 will compete to win a chance to go on to Akron, Ohio to represent Port Jervis in July at the All-American Soap Box Derby. Racers will compete in four divisions: Stock, Super Stock, Masters and Super Kids. Several of Port Jervis’ previous champions will be racing this year along with many newcomers to the sport. After it ceased in 1957, the derby was resurrected in Port Jervis 11 years ago. The first year the derby came back to life drew 38 participants in one division. Now, the event has grown to 150 racers competing in four divisions and is expected to be closely monitored by over 2,000 spectators on race day. This year’s event is being sponsored by several organizations including its key sponsors: Kolmar Laboratories, Shoprite of Montague, N.J., Frontier Communications, and Fox Radio 96.7 / 103.1. The event will not only include racing. Several food and craft vendors will line the Sussex Street Hill as thousands of spectators look on and cheer for their favorite drivers. For more information, visit PJSoapBoxDerby.com or call 845-800-1000.