MANSFIELD — The North Central Ohio Soap Box Derby has been canceled, according to race organizers.
The decision was reached on Monday night.
“We made the difficult decision last night to cancel the NCO Soap Box Derby scheduled for June 20, 2020,” said derby secretary Ruth Kinsey. “Over the last several weeks we have been in contact with our race officials and families. The safety of our racers and families, our volunteers and officials and the spectators must be our top priority.”
The first Mansfield-area soap box derby took place in 1936, with Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course founder Les Griebling one of the event’s earliest winners. Indianapolis Speedway racing legend A.J. Watson was also an early participant. To this day the Stock Division and Super Stock Division championship trophies are named after each man, respectively.
In 1993, Dean Lutton won the Mansfield race and went on to capture the All-American at Derby Downs in Akron. Traditionally, the local event rolls down the North Main Street course and includes about 30 competitors in two divisions.
Unfortunately, the latest chapter of the event’s history won’t be nearly so memorable.
“We think it would be almost impossible to practice social distancing at our many events,” Kinsey said. “We are all very sad about this decision but feel it is for the best for everyone involved.
“We look forward to continuing this annual event in 2021.”
Ruth Kinsey has been involved with the event for 45 years. Her husband, Russ Kinsey, has been involved for 60 years.
“We have contacted our families and officials but just want to be sure anyone interested knows,” Ruth Kinsey said. “Not sure what we will do with our ‘spare’ time the next six weeks or so.
“The Derby has consumed our lives each summer.”
