Even though they’re too young for a driver’s license, Ponoka youths are still able to get in their own car and feel “the thrill of the hill.”
On Sept. 14 the community is hosting another downhill racing derby for youths six to 16 years old.
“It’s supposed to be a grandparent and parent joint project. The kids are to make their own car,” said derby co-ordinator Karen Williams.
Each of the racers runs three times and the top two from each age group face off against each other. “It’s just a family fun day. It’s more about having fun than winning the race,” said Williams.
However, the event includes trophies, medals and T-shirt prizes.
The age groups are divided into six and seven year olds, eight to nine; 10 to 11; 12 to 13 and 14 to 16 year olds. Williams says the event usually draw close to 40 racers.
This year she’s hoping more spectators will come out to watch the races and cheer on the young drivers.
Years ago Ponoka held soapbox derby races and they started up again in 2005 as part of an economic development project in community lifestyles.
“It was just a way to get people involved in the community,” said Williams.
Race registration begins at 8 a.m. and the races start at 10 a.m. They’re located at 42 Avenue from 43 Street to the Riverside Park.