Latest / Des Moines News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!
Teen from Iowa Wins Soap Box Derby | Des Moines News
Thirteen-year-old Melvin Spoelstra from Iowa just stunned the world by winning the All-American Soap Box Derby championship—taking home a $3,000 scholarship, gold ring, trophy, and jacket after racing gravity-powered cars built over months. With nearly 300 young racers competing, Melvin’s win was fueled by family support and the Des Moines Soap Box club, proving teamwork makes champions. The event faced chaos from Canadian wildfire smoke, delaying races and pushing weigh-ins to Saturday. Beyond the thrill, the derby honors mentors like Bill Speeg, building a legacy of engineering passion…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.