Contact: Madeline Myers, Public Relations and Communications Specialist
330-474-5032
 

Press release images available at pbswesternreserve.org/press/photos

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New Soap Box Derby Documentary Captures Racers’ Passion for the Sport 

AKRON, Ohio — Oct. 12, 2026 — For generations of families worldwide, the Soap Box Derby has been about more than downhill racing. In “More Than a Race,” a new documentary chronicling the 88th FirstEnergy All-American Soap Box Derby, outsiders and fans alike are invited to experience the sport through the racers’ eyes — from start to finish line. The documentary will premiere Sunday, Nov. 1, at 7 p.m. on PBS Western Reserve. 

Through the heartfelt stories of champion racers ages 7–20 years old, viewers will discover what endears people to the sport and the STEM skills required to hit the track. 

“The racers explain the ins and outs of the cars, the tracks, the strategy, how they got into the sport, what keeps them engaged, and what they plan to do with the knowledge they’ve learned after their Soap Box Derby driving days are over,” said Eric Welshenbaugh, the producer of the film and the Derby’s marketing and program director. 

First established in Dayton, Ohio, in 1933, and later moved to Akron in 1934, the Soap Box Derby is a sport that brings construction skills and physics to the pavement in a thrilling tradition that’s thrived for almost a century. 

“‘More Than a Race’ is at the perfect intersection of community connection, local storytelling and lifelong learning that we prioritize at PBS Western Reserve,” said Ryan Donchess, chief content officer at PBS Western Reserve. “We’re excited to bring this documentary to our audience and hope the Derby community will appreciate seeing the sport they love on screen.”  

Following its broadcast premiere, “More Than a Race” will be available to watch on demand with the free PBS App, YouTube, and the PBS Western Reserve website. 

## 

About PBS Western Reserve 

PBS Western Reserve is a community organization that empowers Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania through the impact of accessible public media and educational services to foster connection and lifelong learning. The public media organization is made up of two separately licensed public television stations (WNEO and WEAO) and an Educational Services division.  

In September 2026, the PBS Western Reserve Board of Directors approved an agreement to merge with Ideastream Public Media. Both organizations are working through a closing period, which includes a license transfer filing with the FCC and a merger filing with the State of Ohio. The full transition will continue into 2027.  

About the International Soap Box Derby 

The International Soap Box Derby is a nonprofit youth education and leadership development organization whose mission is to inspire the next generation of champions, bring STEM education out of the classroom, promote the Derby experience, and cultivate lifelong skills and character.