BRIDGEPORT, Ohio -
This past weekend a Belmont County teen had to overcome some huge obstacles on her way to a first place finish in the All-American Soap Box Derby.
Seventeen year old Kallie Myers will be a senior at Bridgeport High School. She began competing in the soap box derby back in 2005, when her Grandmother suggested that she give the sport a try.
Fast-forward to 2012. Myers, who is in her final year of eligibility, took first place honors in the St. Clairsville soap box derby. That win qualified her for the 75th All-American Soap Box Derby, which was held this past weekend in Akron.
This years event included competitors from all over America, as well as New Zealand, Germany and Japan.
The day got off to a rough start for Myers. She won the first heat, but just after crossing the finish line her car was slammed into by another driver who had lost control. The crash caused extensive damage to her car with little time for repairs.
"It tore my axel up and my wheels had to be replaced," she says. "I thought I was done. There was no question about it. I looked at my father and I was like we are done. He said we are not; I can fix this. We can rebuild it. There were so many people that stepped in to help me rebuild my car. That is what derby is all about , family."
Myers went on to win the next four heats for the overall win. She received a trophy, jacket, certificate, and $5,000 scholarship.
Myers plans to attend the University of Akron and major in neo-natal nursing.
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