Dick Higginbotham, who passed away in January 2000, was a Soap Box Derby supporter almost since its inception. He participated as a racer in the 1930’s, as a father/pit crew later in life, as a local organization official and in recent years as a spokesman and spectator. Through more than 50 years of involvement in the sport, Dick never failed to support derby racing and the strong family values it builds.

It is sad to see Dick’s passing but the values that he lived by and that he instilled in those in his family and all the others he touched through Soap Box Derby live on. One of these key values is the idea of sportsmanship. With this in mind, Greater Houston Soap Box Derby will award an annual “Dick Higginbotham Memorial Sportsmanship Trophy.” The intent of this designation is to recognize Dick’s contributions to the sport of Soap Box Derby Racing and encourage future participants to remember and adhere to the sportsmanship principles that Dick supported. 

Portrait drawn by

Chris Higginbotham (grandson)

2009 Sportsmanship Trophy Winner - Bryce Gardner