Barrow's Soapbox Derby is set to take place this weekend with thousands of people expected in the town centre.
The event, sponsored by BAE Systems and Barrow Town Council, will take place on Saturday, August 17.
The public will get to see the karts of all shapes, sizes and themes that local organisations have been working hard on.
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Where is the Barrow Soapbox Derby course?
The start ramp is located at the top of Dalton Road and karts will hurtle down the 340m course to the finish line
Sponsored by Orsted, the finish line is outside the Townhouse at the bottom of Dalton Road.
Spectators will be able to line the street to watch the racing action.
The pit area will be located behind the start ramp, allowing the public to be able to view the karts and interact with the teams in between racing.
When does Barrow Soapbox Derby start?
Kart 1 will fly down from 10am and the racing, operated by Marshals North West, is due to be completed at around 4pm followed by a presentation which will take place at the finish stage.
How does a soapbox derby work?
Soapbox Kart number 1 sets off racing down into the town centre course using only gravity to set the first time of the day.
This time will set the benchmark for teams to beat as an array of hand-built Soapbox racers speed down Dalton Road into Barrow town centre.
What Barrow organisations are taking part?
- Concept2Engineering
- MG Carpets
- Caravan Tastic
- Coastline Brewery
- Furness Building Society
- The Wet Room
- Team urban Edge
- Team Oxley
- A.N Other
- The Dalton Road Dash
- Love Barrow Families
- YouthAbility
- Furness Multicultural Forum
- Youthability Allstars
- Team Tally
- Build A Bathroom
- JJC-YA
- Team Forum
Viewing points for the race
An accessible viewing area is by the statue at the top of Portland Walk. This area, sponsored by BAE Systems, includes a raised viewing area located directly across from a big screen - giving great racing views.
Designed for everyone, regardless of physical abilities, unobstructed views can be enjoyed. and includes ramped access, ample space and helpful volunteers.
Along the course, a large-screen TV will be located at the top of Portland Walk. The screen will provide a spectacle for the crowds and ensure you see more of the racing as it happens.
Ear defenders will also be available at this location to assist those with autism.
What's new this year and what is the same?
This year will see new obstacles lining the track.
Following last year's success, the splash zone, sponsored by Grimefighters UK, will return where competitors will have to carefully negotiate to make it over the finish line in the fastest time possible.
There will also be prizes awarded for more categories such as the most innovative cart design and best turned-out soapbox crew.
Who are the commentators?
Host commentators for the day will be radio presenters from Cando FM who will keep you up with events from the CandoFM radio tower, located next to the large screen.
How much is Barrow Soap box Derby?
Spectator attendance at the event is completely free.
Entry fees for contestants have been kept to an absolute minimum, with discounts for town centre businesses, to try and make the event as accessible as possible to budding soapbox racers.
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