By Allison Peck
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Ogallala, Neb. - Racers from across the Midwest will converge on the Wild West Soap Box Derby Track in Ogallala this Saturday as the Ogallala Soap Box Derby hosts the All American Rally Race, one of the organization's premier events of the season. The competition will feature two double-elimination rally races, bringing together drivers from Nebraska and several surrounding states for a full day of gravity-powered racing.
More than 25 cars had already pre-registered ahead of race day, with organizers expecting more than 30 competitors. Racers are scheduled to travel from Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Colorado to compete in the Stock, Super Stock and Masters divisions.
Unlike traditional single-elimination competition, rally racing gives drivers a second chance after their first loss. Competitors move into a challenger bracket and continue racing until they lose a second time, creating opportunities for dramatic comeback runs and more racing throughout the day.
"It's a lot of fun," Rally Director Bobby Collins said. "We've already got over 25 cars pre-registered for Saturday's race, so we're expecting probably well over 30."
Activities begin early Saturday with pits opening at 7 a.m., scales opening at approximately 7:30 a.m. and registration taking place from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Following a drivers meeting and the National Anthem, racing gets underway at 10 a.m. Mountain Time.
In addition to the day's championship racing, the event will feature the organization's Super Kids Race, providing children with special needs the opportunity to experience the excitement of Soap Box Derby racing by riding with experienced drivers in specially equipped cars. Collins called the program one of the most rewarding parts of the season.
The Sponsor Adult Race will also return, with representatives from local businesses climbing into derby cars for a friendly competition of their own.
"It gets a lot of fun," Collins said. "They have a lot of fun with it, and they get pretty competitive also. But it's just a way to recognize all of our sponsors."
Admission is free for spectators, and a full concession stand will be available throughout the day. Collins said races move quickly, with heats taking place about every minute for much of the event before slowing for championship rounds later in the afternoon and evening.
Saturday's rally races also carry significance beyond the trophies awarded in Ogallala. Drivers earn season points based on their finishes, with the top competitors in Region 4 qualifying for the Rally World Championships in Akron, Ohio. Region 4 typically sends four to six racers to the national event each year.
Collins said the Wild West Soap Box Derby Track continues to attract racers from across the region while providing an economic boost for Ogallala through hotel stays, restaurant visits and tourism. He noted the facility is one of only 23 Soap Box Derby tracks in the United States and has earned a reputation as one of the country's premier venues for the sport.
"It doesn't cost anything to come in there and watch," Collins said. "We're going to be racing from 10 in the morning until hopefully around 9 o'clock Saturday night. It'll be a fun time out at the Wild West Soap Box Derby."