On July 25, 1936, one hundred and twenty eight contestants competed in the Evening Express-Chevrolet Motor Company soap box derby on Park Avenue in Portland, Maine. Over 16,000 spectators attended the day of the race.

The overall champion of the day Earl Hudson of Tolman Street, Westbrook, won a trip and entrance to the National Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio, on August 16, 1936.

Many other prizes were given to winners in several categories, including; fastest time, best-looking car, best upholstery job, and the best breaking system. Five heat winners were given a 30 minute ride in the Gannett Publishing Company's speedy Stinson monoplane.