For Immediate Release . . .

June 21, 2004

The Race is On for Local Octorara Youth

After competing in a local Soap Box Derby, a local Octorara student from Cochranville swept the competition and is garnering for the World Championship in Akron, Ohio. Rusty Philipp and his father Russ Philipp partner in the premier youth program that promotes youth and family.
In existence since 1933, the All-American Soap Box Derby is now considered the greatest amateur racing event in the world! Russ Philipp said, “I was first exposed to the Soap Box Derby program when I lived in Media, my son was two years old at the time and I couldn’t wait until he was 9 to get involved with the program, It is really a lot of fun!.” Russ and his son Rusty have been partnering and enjoying the “Derby Mania” ever since.
The day before Father’s Day was a fitting occasion for the father and son team to be honored with Rusty winning the Masters race, qualifying him to compete at the World Championships in July.
Wrapped in a splendid burgundy painted car keenly constructed by the father son team and the power of gravitational force, Rusty closed the gap on his time with his eyes relentlessly fixed on the finish line.
With his wheels spinning down the slope and his concentration riveted on the finish, the thrill of the race surrendered to a moment of glory as he won the heat.
Unknown to the Philipps as they prepared for the race, local Christiana resident and organizer for Christiana’s first Soap Box Derby, Jim Groff was on hand to observe the festivities along with his son Jim and local resident Nancy Hess. While Rusty has registered for Christiana’s first Derby, neither resident met previously or knew the other was present at the event.
After a chance meeting the two groups enjoyed sharing information and plans for Christiana’s first race coming up in August.
The Gravity Grand Prix is a great opportunity for young people to have a good time and develop family relationships and is an integral learning opportunity with objectives in both Math and Science.
Motivated to organize an event in his community, Jim Groff said he was very inspired by the focus on family and promoting good sportsmanship. “The Soap Box Derby is a dynamic and interactive model that promotes learning and community in a very constructive environment. It nurtures children to become solid community citizens through teaching basic construction skills, teamwork, perseverance and family values.” Jim further added, “With growing National interest and NASCAR signing on as a National sponsor, the sport is increasing in popularity.”
Participating boys and girls aged 8-17 compete with simplified cars built from kits. Parents and children collaborate to assemble the kits that include a plastic shell, wooden floorboard and assorted hardware. Groff said, “Most of the cars for the Christiana Derby are sponsored by local businesses or community civic groups, however, it is not too late to get involved.” In addition to the cost of the cars, it usually costs organizers about $8,000 to get the program started. In order to defray on the expense local residents are constructing much of their equipment from scratch and still need support.
Individuals interested in more information, volunteering and donating funds or supplies to the event may contact Jim Groff at 610-593-6612 or Brian Fox at 717-442-5262