Get set for the Soap Box spectacular
Speed and creativity collide this September at the 2025 Hunstanton Soap Box Derby, where racing meets fun for an unforgettable event
When Frank Hartnell, former Chairman of the Town Council, launched Hunstanton’s first Soap Box Derby
in 1953, he envisioned the joy it
would bring to the children at St Christopher’s Home for Boys. From building karts to organising races, even taking them for test runs, his dedication knew no bounds.
72 years on, the race has evolved into a much-loved tradition on the town’s calendar. Though it’s seen occasional pauses over the decades, its revival in 2017 and triumphant return after the Covid-19 pandemic in 2023 have cemented its place as an unmissable spectacle.
“It’s a fun opportunity to build your own kart and compete against other determined teams for the win,” says Jessica Pearce, Events Coordinator
for the Borough Council of King’s Lynn & West Norfolk. “Those who’d rather watch from the sidelines can come and soak up the excitement as the wacky racers zigzag through Hunstanton’s hilly streets in their fantastic outfits.”
The race kicks off at High Street on Greevegate, sending competitors zooming past The Green before crossing the finish line at Beach Terrace Road by the Bandstand. With gravity as their only fuel, racers rely on one powerful push from a teammate before hurtling downhill toward the sea.
“It won’t be smooth sailing for all competitors,” Jessica adds. “With ramps, chicanes and tight corners along the way, not everyone will make it to the finish line. Expect thrills, spills and plenty of excitement at every turn.”
Last year’s champion, Michael Andrew, tore through the track in just 30 seconds in his racer Apex Legend. “I reckon I hit about 24 mph,” says Michael, who is returning to the 2025 event to defend his title. “My boys pushing me off are older and stronger now, so I’m hoping to be even faster this time.”
A self-proclaimed ‘serious racer’, Michael has been hooked on the thrills of soap box derbies and gravity racing for almost a decade, competing in numerous events across the UK. However, not every race ends with a podium finish—the Stoke Ferry resident has had his fair share of crashes.
“Right before the 2024 Hunstanton Soap Box Derby, I competed in the Harewood Speed Hill Climb in West Yorkshire and crashed Apex Legend at about 50 mph,” he says. “Getting the racer running in time was an epic challenge as it took nearly 30 hours to rebuild.”
As a multi-skilled engineer, Michael knows exactly what it takes to construct a sturdy, reliable kart capable of handling the pressures of racing. “I still crossed the finish line with only three wheels,” he laughs. “This year, I’ve reinforced the front end and switched to a lime green finish—you won’t be able to miss me.”
Protective features remain central to his design, including a carefully engineered roll cage, reducing the risk of injury in the event of a crash or rollover.
“My advice to anyone wanting to compete in soap box or gravity racing is to always put safety first,” he says. “Enjoy the thrill and have fun but be cautious. Take the time to check your kart is welded together properly, include appropriate protective measures and engage with people in the racing community who can guide you.”
This sentiment is echoed by Neill Nutting, whose decade of racing experience earned him first place in the Veterans’ Section of the 2024 edition after a 31-second run.
“My kart, Nutty’s Speed Shop, has crash protection, roll bars, a fully strapped harness – the lot,” he says.
“It even has suspension, but I still chose to avoid the ramp and take the smoother route last year. Might’ve cost me a second and the top prize, but it saved my back—that’s racing for you!”
As always, there will be four categories in which racers can enter: two junior and two senior. These are under 13s (10–12-year-olds), Under 16s (13-15-year-olds), Adults (16-49) and Veterans (50+). Prizes will be awarded to teams finishing first, second and third in each category, with a trophy for the overall winner. Alongside the racing honours, the coveted Concours d’Elegance accolade will be given to the best-looking kart, with racers looking to top the efforts of last year’s champions, Hunstanton Fire Station.
“Promising a vibrant carnival atmosphere and seamless organisation, it’s a spectacle not to be missed,”
says Neill. “With high-speed thrills, dramatic crashes and fierce competition, it has everything you could want. I can’t wait to be back on the track this year.”
For more information on the Hunstanton Soap Box Derby and other upcoming events, visit west-norfolk.gov.uk/hunstantonevents.