Hinckley BID’s 11th annual Soap Box Derby (free to spectate)

Published Wednesday, 08 June 2022

Press release issued by Hinckley BID:

With a full-house of 30 plus entries, this year’s race will take place at Castle Street, Hinckley on Sunday 26 June starting at 11am. With two classes, junior (ages 12 to 17 years) and Senior (ages 18 and over), the Hinckley BID Soap Box Derby is an annual fun day for teams, supporters and spectators from the Hinckley area, and beyond.

Always highly entertaining, many teams build novelty creations, some businesses create sleek machines, whilst several raise money for charity, and all are very welcome.

It’s all about speed - utilising the natural hill on Castle Street for individual ‘time-trial’ performances there will be three runs per team. This year all drivers have a choice – they can choose the jump or the chicane as they hurtle down Castle Street cheered on by spectators who are protected by 3ft high metal fencing.

‘Themed’ and ‘amusing’ soap boxes are especially encouraged since they provide the most interest to spectators.

Although a small entry fee is required (per soap box) to help cover costs, this event is largely subsidised by the Hinckley BID on behalf of the town centre businesses, several of whom are open on Sundays together with a host of cafes, pubs and restaurants.  

Prizes will be awarded to competitors in the following categories for 2022 are:

  • Fastest single time on the day – senior (ages 18 and)
  • Fastest single time on the day – junior (ages 12 to 17 years)
  • Overall fastest team – senior (an average of the two fastest runs)
  • Overall fastest team – junior (an average of the two fasted runs)
  • Best turned-out soap box/crew
  • Best novelty soap box
  • Most enthusiastic junior racer
  • Best amateur soap box build 

Every entrant will receive a neck medal.

The first race starts promptly at 11am and the event is usually over by around 2pm. All council owned town centre car parks are free of charge on Sundays, however Church Walk car park will be closed for the event. 

For further information please email info@hinckleybid.co.uk or telephone 01455 698494.