This weekend, the 4th annual Harewood Hill-climb Soapbox Derby will take place in West Yorkshire.
Despite only being a few years old, the event is popular with teams and spectators alike, raising valuable money for local charities along the way.
For those unfamiliar with soapbox racing, the idea is simple. Challengers build a cart which is powered only by gravity (no engines, pedals etc). The carts are then raced down a hill, with the speediest competitors taking the glory. Originally these would have been made from soap boxes or crates with wheels added, hence the name. These days, teams take the sport far more seriously and the soapboxes have become far more sophisticated.
There are plenty of teams expected to take part at this year’s Harewood event, from those with expertly designed aerodynamic carts to the more fun and quirky creations. The soapbox derby is gaining a respected place on the gravity sport map, with guests and teams travelling from as far as America.
The event also sees gravity bikes taking on the downhill challenge. The event is family friendly and there will be food and drink available during the day.
When: 18th August 2019, gates open at 9am
Where: Harewood Hill Climb, Harewood Avenue, Harewood, West Yorkshire LS17 9LD
£: It costs £5 per adult and £2.50 per child to watch. Children under 7 years go free
More info: www.harewoodsoapboxderby.co.uk and www.facebook.com/harewoodsoapboxderby