Racers compete in Deborah Washington Memorial Soap Box Derby in Moss Point

Since 1992, the City of Moss Point has been the home for soapbox derby racing in South Mississippi.

A little bit of inspiration can motivate us to do great things. For Deborah Washington, it was bringing soapbox derby racing to the Coast. Deborah’s mom, Gladys Zeretta Von said, “Deborah was watching the finals, I’d guess you’d say, and on television in Akron Ohio and she said we can do that here in Moss Point.”

After partnering with Chevron, International Paper Company Moss Point Mill, and the military, Deborah Washington held her first soapbox derby. “Those people volunteered and our first race was over by Moss Point High School at this little elevated hill.”

Deborah worked at Chevron for over 20 years as an accountant before losing her life to breast cancer. However, her legacy still lives on today. Soapbox Derby Coordinator Reggie Aaron said, “From what I hear, she saw this on tv and thought this was a great idea to start it for kids in Moss Point. I also understand that she wanted it to be free for the kids here so anybody from any economic situation can participate in this race.”

Kids are putting the pedal to the metal for a chance to race in Ohio. Assistant Race Director Dr. Bob Donald said, “The winners of this will, there will be three winners, and the three winners will go on to the International Soapbox Derby in Akron, Ohio and race for the overall champion of stock, super stock, and super kids.”

For seven-year-old Ty Smith, it is a birthday memory he will never forget. “It’s so fun to go down the ramps. Even though if we win or not, it’s still a really fun experience.”