Soap Box Derby ramps up

Organizers of the annual Powell River Soap Box Derby are calling on families to build their cars early this year and be aware of new weight restrictions. For safety reasons, cars need to be a maximum of 70 pounds in order to be entered into the popular races, which take place on the hill of Lois Street beside Sunset Park in Wildwood.

“We don’t have crashes, but it’s always possible,” says Don Allen, Kiwanis Club of Powell River member and an organizer of the 69th annual event. “We’ve had a couple of occasions where people come off the ramp and they are wobbly, so it’s important to limit the weight.”

The soap box derby has become one of Powell River’s most anticipated family events, allowing children and their parents to build and race customized cars. Last year, more than 40 entrants competed in the derby.

“It was quite successful last year and it was one of the best years for turnout,” says Allen, adding that hundreds of residents and visitors attended.

The first soap box derby took place in 1947 on the old Westview Hill, a dirt road that finished in front of Willingdon Beach. The winners of the first race were Bruce Smith and George Kent, winning the Alsgard Trophy. This year’s winner will receive the very same trophy.

The soap box derby takes place Saturday, May 28, and Sunday, May 29, with tryouts on the Saturday starting at approximately noon. Sunday starts with a by-donation pancake breakfast at 9 am and races beginning at noon. Ages seven to adult are allowed to enter for free with eligible cars. Racing manuals are available now at Quality Foods and Town Centre Mall office.

Derby organizers are still looking for volunteers for both days of the event and those interested are asked to call Rob Maitland at 604.578.8465. Volunteers are vitally important to the community-run event, says Allen.

“People don’t recognize how much goes into putting on one of these events,” he says. “It’s volunteers that makes this all work.”

Sponsored by Kiwanis, Quality Foods and City of Powell River, organizers say the event has become a yearly tradition for local families.

“It’s a wonderful event. We get satisfaction out of seeing people enjoying themselves,” says Allen, “and it’s a great opportunity for families to work together on building the karts.”

Powell River Soap Box Derby
When: Saturday, May 28, and Sunday, May 29
Where: Sunset Park, Wildwood
Price: Free
Info: 604.578.8465 (Rob Maitland)