“The Thrill Of The Hill” will for the 14th year happen June 20th. Trial

safety runs happen the day before for soap box derby racers ages 8 to 17 in Northern Maine. The Houlton Maine derby race on Derby Hill, a specially engineered course used for spring and fall rallies too, is so easy to set up and take down. Safety is the main concern and in the past, the Aroostook County, Northern Washington / Penobscot County race was the nation’ s largest. For five years straight, upwards to 200 boys and girl stock, super stock and master racers have competed in “heats” to advance thru the race brackets to determine a Northern Maine champion for each race division. I had two racers, a son and daughter win the event in 1998, 2001 to go on to the  72nd All American national soap box derby race in Akron, Ohio. 

     At one time there were five local districts racing in Maine. It is a great experience for kids to learn about building a car with parent or big brother/sister. Skills with tools and patience needed, and friendly competition with your family cheering you on. There is a big party for racers and their families after each local race in June to celebrate and send off the winners to represent Northern Maine in Akron, Ohio’s world series of racing.

     Northern Maine which attracts racers from up to two hours away in Aroostook, Washington and Penobscot Counties has had many top competitors finish runner up to the winner in Akron, or a little further down the line in the finals proving the Houlton race is very polished and competitve. Watch the 2008 Houlton Maine derby race video. Watch the 2007 Houlton Maine derby race.

Maine REALTOR Andrew Mooers – Working, Playing, Living In Houlton ME