David Krussow

David Krussow, born on Jan. 11, 1954 in Ellensburg, became the second Tacoma entrant to win a national soap box derby title when he finished first at the 1966 All-America Derby in Akron, Ohio.

Krussow’s national championship followed by two years the title won by Greg Schumacher, and like Schumacher, Krussow benefited from a strong local interest in the sport. Starting with John West in 1960 and ending with Krussow in 1966, five Tacoma derby winners placed in the top eight at Akron. After winning the title, Krussow was given a parade and police escort to the top of Kiwanis Derby Hill where he greeted well-wishers.

Krussow attended Peninsula High School where he competed in basketball and track. After graduating from Peninsula in 1982, he went on to compete in track & field at Western Washington University.