This is a Soap Box Derby racer driven by Mark E. Ilgenfritz, 11, who took first place in the 3rd Annual York County, PA local race in 1970 as a class B entry. Representing his hometown, he competed at the 33rd All-American Nationals in Akron, OH in a field of 260 entries, where he did not make it past the first round.
Ilgenfritz’s car comprised an unusual design, with the occupant seated forward of the body’s mid-point. Like many competitive late 60s and early 70s, the front axle was also positioned rearward to improve performance, shortening the wheelbase. Mark sat crouch-forward and low, his legs clearing the front axle and feet sitting just inside the front of the car.
The model is created from several photos of the extant car, which is on exhibit at the Easter Museum of Motor Racing (EMMR), which hosts numerous Derby examples. It is geo-located.
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