Thousands watched sun soaked soapbox derby in Avon Dassett

Home made karts raced down the steep and winding village road

Thousands of people headed to Avon Dassett yesterday (Saturday) for the annual Soapbox Derby.

Fifteen adults and six juniors raced their home made karts with nothing but gravity to propel them down the steep and winding downhill road through the village.

The drivers had spent hours building colourful and creative designs which captivated the spectators lining the course.

Twelve-year-old Freddie Morgan-Smart from Banbury was the winner of the junior competition in his cart Ready Freddie Go.   Freddie is a pupil at Chenderit School.

Brian Stanford from Northend raced across the finish line as the winner of the adult competition.   “It was just amazing – great fun, a great buzz”, said Brian.   “My kart gets put in the shed and then pulled out about a month before the race.   The tyres are pumped up and cleaned off.”

Brain named his pink cart “Titty Titty Bang Bang” in honour of the charity he was supporting.   He said: “It means a lot to me because my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago.   She’s in remission now, so I’m racing for breast cancer this time.  

“The advances made into cancer diagnosis and treatments are so far advanced, but it’s only through the help of people donating so they can make these advances.   Luckily she’s been in remission for two years now.   If you’re going to come down the hill let’s race for charity!

“The speeds coming down the hill are 50-55 kmph.   It was a bit scary sideways through the S-bend!”

Sarah Richardson is the Soapbox Derby race secretary.   “It’s been a brilliant day and great to have different winners in the mix,” said Sarah.   “The third placed driver, Rob [Preite] is totally a new entry.   He was really nervous but did a great job.

“It’s been a great day and the crowd are always just so friendly.   They really enjoy this event.   It’s a bit different, it’s good fun and it’s fast and furious.   It’s lovely to see all the people.”

Of the 21 drivers only one was female – Alicia Green in the junior section.   “I think Alicia showed the girls the way,” said Sarah.   “She came third with really good driving and a brilliant kart.   Her little brother Tyler won the best kart as well so there’s a very happy family there.”

Last year the Soapbox Derby raised £3,000 for the Children’s Christmas Wish List, a charity which provides treats for terminally ill and sick children in hospital.   Its hoped this year’s event will raise even more.

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Published: 23/06/2024 04:46pm by Banbury FM Newsteam

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