ATLANTA, Ga. — It's back!
Dozens of the South's most innovative and witty amateur drivers will race their homemade soapbox crafts down North Avenue NE Saturday.
After making its Atlanta debut in 2009 and a return visit in 2012, the Red Bull Soapbox Race will return to the peach state for a day of racing and entertainment. Organizers expect thousands of spectators to attend the free event and watch the outrageous, human-powered soapbox dream machines race against the clock in a downhill dash. Pits will open at 11:00 a.m. with the race starting at noon.
Despite the thrills and spills of the race being the main draw, the event is fueled by more than just the need for speed. Participating teams are also driven by creativity and competitive fun. Teams are judged on a criteria of one-third speed, one-third creativity and one-third showmanship. So in addition to building the quickest soapbox, teams will also need to impress judges by how outrageous and charismatic they can be.
In addition to the over forty new teams participating this year, the reigning Red Bull Soapbox Atlanta Champions, Sweetwater Brewing Co., will return to protect their crown. Team member Zak Ray Schroerlucke shared the team's philosophy saying, "SweetWater is all about speed – hot, nasty speed. We're bringing home the trophy again this year – because if you ain't first, you're last!"
The Red Bull Soapbox Race is an event for all those who love adventure racing, have a sense of humor and are inspired and interested in showing off their skills and creativity in inventions. This, year the Atlanta crowd can look forward to vehicles in the shape of skates, dinosaurs as well as crafts inspired by all facets of popular culture including video games, movies and yes, Chuck Norris.
Red Bull Soapbox Race is a free event and open to spectators of all ages.
There are a number of events going on in downtown Atlanta on Saturday including a Georgia Tech football game and the Taylor Swift concert. Minimal parking will be available and traffic is expected to be heavy all day, but particularly later in the day.
WSBTV
