The wacky sight of a soapbox derby is coming to Bristol later this year, and organisers are looking for groups and companies to enter teams to take part in the spectacle.
Soapbox derbies see teams in fancy dress race down hill in home-made go-karts, with the emphasis on having fun just as much as being the quickest to reach the bottom of the hill. Red Bull’s Soapbox derbies are international events that are televised and draw crowds of thousands, and now a British version that has previously held races in the north is coming to Bristol for the event in September.
The ‘Krazy Races’ event is to take place on Sunday, September 7, and organisers say they are expecting a crowd of thousands to line a course through Victoria Park for the event, which will see up to 40 teams take part in a series of races during morning and afternoon sessions, with the finale at around 4pm that day.
The exact course and logistics of the event are yet to be revealed, but organisers said they have a route and will have an event village around the track with a large screen and entertainment. Teams pay a fee to enter and can raise money for their own chosen charity. In the five years that Krazy Races have been running, they say they have had a quarter of million people watch the races and raise more than £150,000 for local good causes.
It’s the kind of thing, whenever a Soapbox Derby is on TV, people in Bristol regularly think would be perfect somewhere in the hilly city – and now Krazy Races are bringing it to the city.
Krazy Races Boxcar racing in Stockport town centre in May 2023
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing Krazy Races to Bristol this year, and I can’t wait to start meeting and working with the many amazing local businesses here,” said Sarah Belcher, the Founder of Krazy Races, said. “Over the years, we’ve seen some truly creative soapboxes, and we’re excited to see what the people of Bristol come up with. With Bristol’s famous hills, we’re in for a day to remember! See you all on Sunday 7th September!”
A spokesperson for the event explained what is in store. “Teams, which can include individuals, charity groups, or businesses, will design, build, and race their handcrafted soapboxes in front of a crowd of thousands of spectators, relying solely on the power of gravity.
“The Bristol event will be the first of its kind in the city. Taking place on Windmill Hill in Victoria Park, the race promises an exciting day of fun and thrills, with competitors vying for trophies and local pride. It’s going to be our biggest event yet—don’t miss it.
Krazy Races Boxcar racing in Stockport town centre in May 2023
(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“As well as the exciting races, Krazy Races will work closely with local stakeholders and businesses to create a fun-filled day for all the family. Expect entertainers, food stalls, and much more to ensure an unforgettable experience,” they added.
“Tickets for Bristol Krazy Races and team applications are now available. The event will be run in a knockout competition format, with multiple trophies and prizes on offer. Teams and spectators are encouraged to raise as much money as possible for charity. The official Bristol Krazy Races charity partner will be announced in early 2025, but charities are welcome to get in touch with organisers now for more details,” they added.