'Ingenuity and friendly competition' on display at Rushden Soap Box Derby in Hall Park this year
Hall Park will once again play host to the annual Soap Box Derby in Rushden on June 7, bringing together the commmunity for a day of 'ingenuity and friendly competition.'
The soap box derby has become a staple of Rushden’s events calendar, inviting people from all over the town to submit their creative designs for a short burst down a course mapped out along Hall Park’s tarmac paths.
This year’s event gets under way on Sunday, June 7, with races starting from 2pm.
A Rushden Town Council spokesman said: "Rushden Town Council is pleased to present the Rushden Soap Box Derby 2026, a fun-filled day celebrating ingenuity and friendly competition.
“This exciting community event will take place at Hall Park and promises a fun-filled afternoon of creativity, competition and family entertainment.
"The Rushden Soap Box Derby is a full day of excitement, creativity and community spirit. From the moment the karts arrive at Hall Park, the atmosphere comes alive with colourful builds, cheering crowds and the buzz of race day. It's a fantastic event for all ages, packed with laughs, action and unforgettable moments.
"Not racing? No problem. The derby is a brilliant day out for families, friends and spectators. Watch the action unfold, admire the creativity of the karts, and soak up the friendly, community atmosphere. There's plenty to see, cheer for and enjoy throughout the day.”
Cash prizes will be awarded for winners in each of the three entry classes (those aged six to 11, 12 to 16 and over 17s), provided by KingTools, with goodie bags supplied by Santa Pod Raceway.
There will also be awards for the most innovative or craziest design.
Designs of each kart must meet strict requirements in order to take part. Entries can be no longer than one metre wide and two metres in length and must have a solid floor.
They should not exceed 110kg in overall weight (driver not included) and no nails can be used in construction, only screws. Karts must also have four wheels, one in each corner.
All drivers are required to wear a helmet and knee and elbow pads are recommended.
Prospective pilots of the creative soap box karts must download an application form from the town council website and return it completed to Rushden Town Council, Rushden Hall, NN10 9NG no later than 4.30pm on Monday, May 11.