Celebrating the shining return of Hunstanton’s soapbox spectacular

It’s been four years since the last Borough Council King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Soapbox Derby took place in Hunstanton, with the iconic event postponed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. But now it’s back, and it promises to be bigger and better than ever.

The 2023 event marks 7 decades since the first Soapbox Derby took place, with the race being held on and off in Hunstanton over the years. The extravaganza will take place on 2nd April rather than the usual month of September, allowing competitors and spectators alike to make the most of the Easter holidays and early spring weather.

The theme is, of course, Easter so spectators can look forward to an explosion of colour, playful costumes and an array of fantastic kart designs. The course will begin on Greevegate and end on Beach Terrace Road, with
a few exciting twists and turns expected along the way. For racers like Dave Curtis, it’s an event not to be missed. 

“I’ve been involved with the Hunstanton Soapbox Derby since it was revived in 2017, but I’ve been a big fan of the sport for a long time now,” he says. “It all started when I developed an interest in building and renovating cars as a young boy. My dream was to become a professional racecar driver but it’s a tough world to break into – not to mention expensive! So when I discovered soapbox racing I was hooked.”

This love for the sport has taken Dave in the direction of what’s known as gravity racing, a more serious arm of soapbox racing organised on permanent professional tracks, such as the Harewood Speed Hillclimb in West Yorkshire. But he still makes time to race exciting soapbox challenges. 

He’s competed in a number of big events across the country, including the renowned Redbull soapbox race in London and the Great Dunmow event in Essex; a prestigious charity occasion and the second largest soapbox race in the UK. With his wealth of experience, Dave is undoubtedly one of Hunstanton’s most accomplished and enthusiastic competitors. 

“I’m looking forward to this year’s Derby after such a long break,” he says. “I plan to race my latest soapbox – the Gravitron.” Dave has built six different karts to date, each one better than the last. His current racer is without a doubt the fastest and most innovative creation yet. Featuring rack and pinion steering, full hydraulic brakes, and streamline engineering (which means the racer is a staggering 795mm from the rollbar to ground and can be operated lying down) the Gravitron is a breathtaking example of a soapbox at its finest.

“It’s taken a long time to finetune my current racer,” he says. “It’s certainly not something that happens overnight.” But he doesn’t want that to put anyone off. “As long as you’ve got a good idea, a basic knowledge of how to complete the build, and about £100 you’re good to go!”

For people like Dave, racing is more than a hobby. It’s a lifestyle choice, it’s a community, it’s about being the best racer you can possibly be. The real beauty of soapbox racing is that it’s a unique sport you can enjoy in so many ways. For spectators it’s a chance to have fun and soak in the excitement of both good and bad racers. For competitors, it’s a thrilling and creative challenge – and anyone can have a go. 

“That’s the great thing about soapbox racing,” says Dave. “It’s a completely inclusive activity welcoming people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities. Anyone who’s ever done it will know how exhilarating it is and how easy it is to catch the racing bug – and if you haven’t tried it, now’s the time to get involved!”

For those thinking of taking part in this year’s highly-anticipated Hunstanton Soapbox Derby, there are four age categories in which racers can enter. These are: 10-12s (£15.00); 13-15s (£15.00); adults 16 plus (£20.00); and over 65s (£20.00). Prizes will be available for teams finishing first, second, and third in each category, whilst the coveted ‘Concourse d’elegance’ accolade will be awarded to the most creative soapboxes. Places are limited, so it is highly recommended that teams enter as soon as possible at www.west-norfolk.gov.uk/soapboxderby.

As for those who want to enjoy a carnival atmosphere whilst witnessing the impressive display of 50 or more karts whizzing through the streets of Hunstanton, be sure to get there early. Crowds in the thousands are expected to line the streets. It really is an event not to be missed.