Soap Box Derby tradition continues in Conshohocken, Pa.

CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. (WPVI) -- For many, July Fourth is a day to bring out the grill and go see the fireworks display, but in Conshohocken, for the last 60+ years, it is, quite simply, Derby Day.

"It has just become a part of the community," said Conshohocken Mayor Robert Frost. "Generation after generation get involved and just pass it along to the children and their children and their children."

It is the 66th annual Conshohocken Soap Box Derby.

Over 40 drivers between 8 and 18 years old raced their home assembled cars down a 900 feet track on Fayette Street in hopes of qualifying for the world championships.

Under each tent we found racers and their families putting the final touches on the cars, from brand new drivers to Soap Box Derby royalty, like the Donovan family.

"My uncles raced in the '70s, my sisters and I raced in the '80s and '90s, my cousins in the 2000s and my kids since '09," said Bo Donovan.

Once the pleasantries are out of the way, the competition is fierce.

But this is still very much a community event that's all about building character and creating an unforgettable childhood experience.

Tuesday's winners will head to Akron, Ohio for the championship, which will begin on July 16th.

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