It was “Let’s go racing boys and girls” Jan. 11 a Boothbay Baptist Church. Twenty youth racers converged on the church to compete in the annual FASCAR event.

The church began inviting a Word of Life Ministry missionary from Schroon Lake, New York 11 years ago to bring FASCAR to Boothbay. The ministry created FASCAR — a blend of matchbox cars and soapbox derby —- to attract youths to learn about Jesus Christ.

Missionary Eric Brown arrived in Boothbay in 2007 for the first FASCAR at the church. Brown has worked for Word of Life for 13 years. He travels around the region doing about 15 FASCAR events a year. Each event runs two to three hours. “We were looking to come up with an idea for these kids to have a good time and learn about the Gospel,” Brown said. “We race about 115 cars in about 10 minutes, take a break, and hear a story about Jesus, then hold the finals.”

This year’s event drew youths ranging from toddlers to teens. Jason Michael, 14,  was last year’s Grand Champion. He brought his red matchbox drag racer in hopes of defending his title. “I came hoping to win, but it’s also a lot of fun, too,” he said. “But the main reason we’re here is to tell people about Jesus.”

Andrew Fowlie, 12, is also a veteran FASCAR racer. He was hoping to finish second or third in his division. Fowlie came to race and have a good time. He described FASCAR as “a good time for all,” because everyone laughs watching the cars go down the track.

“I love it, and it’s a lot of fun,” Fowlie said. “The whole time we are laughing and having a good time with our friends. It’s also a special time because we are also spreading the word about Jesus.”

A FASCAR track is a 32-foot wooden super speedway six-lane highway. The track is equipped with red, yellow and green lights and racers count down as they anticipate releasing matchbox cars down the track for a heat lasting about four seconds.

FASCAR includes five divisions: 1-3 year olds, Challengers, Conquerors, Champions, and Open Class. FASCAR awards the fastest overall car as Grand Champion. Maria Michael captured this year’s  Grand Champion title and also won the Champions Division. She defeated Nicholas Fasset, who finished second, and third place finisher Jonah Dickenson in the Champions Division.

In the 1-3 year old Division, Maxwell Cusumano was the champion. He defeated second place finisher Milie Dickenson, and third place finisher Leo Barter.

In the Challenger Division, Dominic Holmes won the championship. Avery Fowlie finished second and Matthew Cusumano placed third.

In the Conquerors Division, Corinne Cusumano won the race. She defeated second place Rebecca Fassett and third place Christian Dodge.

Prior to the final heat, Brown told a 30-minute story about Adam and Eve and original sin.