Mason Moore | Hinckley Reporter | 7 May 2023
HINCKLEY BID have encouraged residents to create their own soap boxes and enter in to their much-loved Soap Box Derby, which sees drivers steam on down Castle Street.
It comes as no surprise that the themed soap boxes always wow the crowds, as last year’s event seen thousands of town-goers flock on down and marvel on in awe.
And now, bosses at the Business Improvement District (BID) have made it known that they’ve already started to hear from many residents registering their interest, and they want to see even more residents enter in, so the can enjoy the fun first-hand.
The first event was held in 2011, and is always highly-anticipated, just like the Hinckley Bid-organised pancake races, classic vehicle meets, and motorshows respectively.
It will be held on Sunday, 9 July, with entrants arriving in the pits from 8am, the main races starting from 11am, and trophy presentations being held at 1.30pm.
Families and friends are able to enter in to the race, as they design their own soap box together.
A small entry fee is required per soap box, as this helps cover the event costs, which is largely subsidised by Hinckley BID, who form the Hinckley Town Centre Partnerships, on behalf of the town centre’s businesses – many of whom are open on Sundays.
Anyone looking to enter in can receive an entry pack by simply emailing Toni Scott – the BID’s Business Liaison Manager and Events Manager, on toni@hinckleybid.co.uk, or alternatively calling 0770 939 4841.
A Hinckley BID spokesperson said: “The event is free to watch. With a junior class (12 – 17), and senior class (18+), the Soap Box Derby is an annual fun day for teams, supporters and spectators from the Hinckley area, and beyond.
“Soapboxes are styled and manufactured by families, businesses and organisations – and this year as well as many local entries, Teams are coming from far and wide.
“Utilising the natural hill on Castle Street for individual ‘Time-Trial’ performances, there will be 3 runs per Team and all will be counted.
“We are again including the option of a JUMP, so the driver can choose whether to enter the Chicane or chance the Jump.”
They concluded: “‘Themed’ and ‘amusing’ Soap Boxes are especially encouraged as they provide the most interest to spectators.”
Trophies will be awarded to competitors in recognition of their dedication and success on the day. Categories for 2023 are:
- Fastest single time on the day – Class A (ages 18+)
- Fastest single time on the day – Class B (ages 12-17 incl)
- Overall fastest team – Class A (an aggregate of the 3 runs)
- Overall fastest team – Class B (an aggregate of the 3 runs)
- Best Turned-out Soapbox and Crew
- Best Novelty Soapbox
- Best Amateur Build
- Most enthusiastic junior racer
- Every Team Member will receive a neck medal from the Mayor
For further details, email info@hinckleybid.co.uk, or call 01455 69849.