Annual Pikes Peak Soap Box Derby canceled due to COVID-19

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- What would have been the 17th annual Pikes Peak Soap Box Derby has now been canceled over the coronavirus crisis.

That's according to a statement from derby officials sent to KRDO Saturday morning. Ordinarily, the derby is a much anticipated event for children to compete in hand made carts for the privilege of representing Colorado Springs at the International Soap Box Derby. It's unclear if the international event, currently scheduled for July 25 in Akron, Ohio, will go on as planned.

"We will continue next year same time and same place!" said Pikes Peak organizers in a prepared statement. "Our concern is with the health of our Race families and the great volunteers that participate in the event."