The Rotary Club of Issaquah will host the 17th annual Challenge Series Races on July 12. The soapbox derby-type race, lets people with disabilities experience the thrill of racing down Second Avenue in front of the Community Center in historic Downtown Issaquah.

For each race, two participants climb into the seat of a sleek gravity powered car. An able-bodied driver is at the wheel, joined by the youngster with the disability.

The event was founded by Issaquah resident Leo Finnegan when is son, Tim, wanted to race with his brothers in regular soapbox derbies, but couldn’t because of his disability.

There are three race sessions: 9-10 a.m.; 10:30 a.m. to noon; and 1-2:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required by calling Finnegan, prior to race day, at 425-392-5682. Participants must be no taller than 5’2” and weigh less than 130 pounds.

Check in on race day is 8 a.m.

More information about the event is online or by contacting Stan Conrad, Rotary Club of Issaquah Club at 425-864-6171.