Jersey’s ‘Wacky Races’ returns

Saturday 25 May 2019

Racing islanders are set to hurl themselves downhill in self-made machines this weekend in Jersey's own 'Wacky Races' this weekend.

Tomorrow, Jersey's Soapbox Challenge will return for its second year.

The “extreme” gravity-testing downhill race will see contestants trying to beat the current competition record of 34 seconds all whilst raising money for Jersey Hospice.

Soapbox makers and racers will test their mettle on a track which runs from the old Fort Regent Swimming Pool, past Mount Bingham swing park down to the finish line on South Hill. 

Corporate teams and individuals will go head to head in the fast-paced dash and prizes for the best design and construction of a soapbox and the best themed car are also up for grabs.

Head of Sales and Marketing at Rubis – the title sponsor of the event - Nick Crolla, said that the fuel company are “proud” to support the second annual race, adding: “This event is a fantastic showcase of our islanders’ ingenuity and brings a variety of people together.

"The day is a spectacle for all the family to enjoy and it is great to know that all the funds raised go to supporting Jersey Hospice.”

The event will open at 10:00 tomorrow for the practice runs and the competition will properly commence at 13:30 until 17:00. In addition to watching “the thrilling races”, organisers say that spectators “will be able to enjoy the delicious food stalls on site.”

Pictured: The race will begin outside the old swimming pool at Fort Regent and finish on South Hill.

Chairman of Fundraising at Jersey Hospice Steven Hunt said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the Jersey International Motoring Festival for choosing Jersey Hospice Care to be the beneficiary of the Rubis Jersey Soapbox Challenge and to all the sponsors for allowing all the money raised to come directly to Jersey Hospice Care.” 

Encouraging islanders and visitors to attend the event, Rubis added: “Entry is free and all the teams and individuals taking part will be glad of encouragement, as they pit their wits against each other, testing their engineering, design and driving skills.”