The Greater Ohio Area SuperKids Classic, Inc. is a non-profit organization committed to providing a safe and organized Soap Box Derby style race for children with disabilities aged 7-18. The story of our organization begins in 1980 with the #34 Chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America, who chose to work with the Akron Soap Box Derby for a community project. It was during this project that veteran Dave Mitan had a life-changing encounter with a special needs child who asked, “Why can’t I do that?” This encounter inspired Dave and his fellow veterans to design and build cars for these special children, and the first race was held in Akron, Ohio the following year in 1981.
The race was named the “Super Kids Classic” because of the positive attitude and smiling faces of the children, who helped the veterans overcome their own debilitating war experiences. This local Akron race later became known as the Greater Ohio Area SuperKids Classic, Inc. Over time, the Akron veterans shared their Super Kids experience with others across the country, and local chapters were established nationwide to hold races in their communities.
As the years passed, a larger dream began to take shape – to give Super Kids the opportunity to compete in a national competition, where they could challenge others like themselves from across the nation. This dream became a reality on August 9, 2003, in the derby hometown of Akron, Ohio, when Derby Downs became the home of the National Super Kids Classic, Inc.
At the Greater Ohio Area SuperKids Classic, Inc., we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who made this event possible. From its inception to the present day, countless hours of hard work, community contributions, and dedication have gone into creating this incredible event. The smiling faces of our Super Kids as they cross the finish line are a testament to the power of teamwork and the spirit of community.