Craig Howell ALL INCLUSIVE – Members of the Wellsburg Super Kids Soapbox Derby Committee, from left, Jane Stoner, Kevin Maloney, and Samantha Kuzma, are pictured with two of the cars built for the race to be held June 27.

WELLSBURG — The community’s celebration of Independence Day is about to get bigger — and more inclusive.

On the opening day of Wellsburg’s weeklong festivities, racers of various ages and abilities will take to the course for a Super Kids Soap Box Derby.

Kevin Maloney, who is heading up the event along with committee members Samantha Kuzma, Nanci Walker, Jane Stoner, Mike Riley and Nancy Deters, explained a Super Kids race is designed for children and adults with special needs to have an opportunity to participate in a soapbox-style race.

“Our racers sit on the passenger side,” Maloney said, adding they will wear a harness and seat belt, while the car itself is controlled by the co-pilot.

Co-pilots will be individuals who previously have competed in the Wellsburg Oil Can Derby.

Set to begin at 10 a.m. June 27, the race will follow a course on Fourth Street near the Salvation Army offices.

Maloney noted there is no age requirement for racers, but they do need permission from a parent or guardian, and organizers have established a weight limit of 220 pounds for each racer.

There is no cost to participate, and racers don’t have to live in Wellsburg.

“This is open to everybody,” Maloney said.

Currently, there are 11 cars built for use in the races, many painted in themes from popular culture, including Disney movies, Batman, Thomas the Tank Engine and the Minions. There also is a West Virginia-themed car and one designed to look like a motorcycle, Maloney said.

Stoner explained a Super Kids event previously had been held in Moundsville, but when it stopped, Maloney saw an opportunity for something new to be included in Wellsburg’s holiday festivities.

“This brings it to the community and the surrounding area,” Stoner said, noting it also provides an activity for those with special needs.

As with the Wellsburg Oil Can Derby, the race course will be lined with hay bales as a safety precaution. In addition, medical professionals will be on hand, and all racers must wear a helmet while participating.

For more information on the race and how to sign up, contact Maloney at (724) 914-3969 or email wellsburgoilcanderby@gmail.com.