QUINCY, ILL. -- Friday it was time for the hard work before the fun. Crews had their hands full getting ready for the annual soap box derby this weekend.

Every year, kids put their best creations to the test down the big hill on 18th Street in Quincy.

This is the 8th year for the derby which is sponsored by the Morning Breakfast Optimist club.

This year 73 young racers will try to win top honors in both the stock and super stock divisions.

All the money raised for the event goes to support the groups Kids with Cancer Fund.

On Saturday, 73 racers between the ages of 7-17 will compete in 144 races to see who will go home with bragging rights as the best of the best.

Will your friend or loved one be racing? Tell us all about it either below or on our Facebook page here.