https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZnjigKA0yg
The streets of Brighton were filled with excitement Saturday as children and youth took to the hills for the Municipality of Brighton’s annual Soapbox Derby.
The free community event was held August 15 at the intersection of Crestview Avenue and Kingsley Avenue, giving young racers between the ages of 7 and 17 the opportunity to experience the thrill of racing homemade and community-built carts.
Registration quickly filled up with 30 participants before organizers opened an additional 10 spots, bringing the total to 40 young racers.
The carts were provided free of charge by the organizers, with local businesses playing an important role in making the event possible.
Councillor Hannah MacAusland said four local businesses built carts specifically for the races, while two additional carts were borrowed from Bloomfield.
“It’s a great day and I’m hoping we can make it an annual event,” MacAusland said.
Registration began in the afternoon, followed by cart check-in before the racing action got underway at 4 p.m.
The Soapbox Derby provided a fun afternoon for racers, families and spectators, while giving local children and youth a chance to compete, cheer one another on and enjoy a community event close to home.
With registration filling up and organizers expanding the field to accommodate more participants, there was plenty of interest in bringing the event back.
For Brighton, Saturday’s races may have marked the beginning of a new summer tradition.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
