Port Jervis Soap Box Derby sees big turnout

The Port Jervis Soap Box Derby was back in action this past Sunday, June 9, as 75 children competed to become one of the City’s champions. According to the organizers, kids as young as 8 and as old as 20 competed in four divisions: Stock, Super Stock, Super Kids and Masters.

Throughout the day, children tucked into their cars, got as low as possible and raced as fast as gravity would let them while they steered toward the finish line. Hundreds of spectators and vendors lined the streets to cheer on the competitors.

Justin Hadden, 11, won for the third year in a row, this time in the Masters Division. He completed the Dery’s trifecta, winning in all three divisions he has been eligible to drive in. Also joining Hadden in the victory lane were Giada Donado, 14, in the Super Stock Division; Isabella Silva, 14, in the Super Kids Division; and Colton Malone, 11, in the Stock Division. All four will now travel to Ohio to represent Port Jervis in the International Soap Box Derby in July.

During opening ceremonies this year, the Derby honored the gentleman responsible for the rebirth of the Port Jervis Soap Box Derby 25 years ago, William Hockenberry and his wife Barbara. The City of Port Jervis named Sussex Street, which is where the derby takes place each year, “Hockenberry Hill” in memory of the local businessman whose idea resurrected the derby more than two decades ago. Since then, thousands of children have had a chance to race in the derby. Hockenberry Hill is where the derby will take place from here on out.

Also on hand at opening ceremonies was New York State Senator James Skoufis, who represents Port Jervis in Albany. Skoufis presented a check for $5,000 to the derby, commending its efforts in youth empowerment.

“These dollars are so important to our derby and our kids. We are grateful for this and for the support of our sponsors and volunteers,” said Derby Director Billy McKerrell. “It was a fantastic day and a fantastic derby. We couldn’t have asked for anything more.”

The 2024 Port Jervis Soap Box Derby was presented by Tri-State Drywall and Acoustical and supported by several other generous sponsors, including Little Pediatrics & O’Connor Urgent Care, M&T Bank, Cornerstone Family Healthcare, All-County Mechanical Plumbing & Heating, Quick Insurance, The Payne Team Real Estate, Goosetown Communications, and the Outdoor Club of Port Jervis.