→ James Race is being held to
honour the memory of James Birrell
and to provide a platform to promote
awareness for Neuroblastoma research.
Children and parents from throughout
Ontario and the United States will race
in friendly competition. By doing so
they will be helping to keep James
memory alive, their smiles of
accomplishment will serve to remind
us all to have the courage to fight
against the odds, and to greet each
day with a smile.
→ James Birrell was a 7 year old
Peterborough boy, who suffered
from Neuroblastoma. James announced
to his father while in hospital for
treatment that he wished to race in
his home town derby. James designed
his car, and with the help of friend
"BIG" James, family and friends the
car that James designed was built
and made ready for the big day.
Against overwhelming odds James
arrived on the hill for race day.
Although for weeks leading up to
the race, James; weakened and
frail from the affects of chemo-therapy
and the ravages of the neuroblastoma
appeared to be losing the battle.
Doctors were convinced that James
drew strength by focusing on his
desire to race at the derby.
Soap Box Derby Racing, had given
James the will power to fight on.
James did not win his division, but
he did win the hearts of all those
present that day. His ever present
smile and courage to fight, set a
blazing example to everyone. James
finally succumbed to his illness in
December 2001.
It is this courageous young boy we
attempt to honour with this Open
Invitational Soap Box Derby Championships.
May the memory of James Birrell live on through our efforts.
Any Questions or comment's contact Bernie Daynes at [email protected]
This web site created by: Philip Kloosterman, at [email protected]
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