SALT LAKE CITY — The excitement is building as the inaugural Red Bull Soapbox Race gears up for a thrilling debut in Utah at the State Capitol Building this Saturday. With a remarkable number of participants, 45 teams from across the United States—including four from Northern Utah—are ready to showcase their creativity and engineering skills.
The event draws teams from as far as Raleigh, North Carolina, and teams nearby from Ogden and Layton. Among the local competitors is Spacestation Gaming from Layton, whose gravity-powered vehicle design draws inspiration from the popular video game Rocket League. Team captain Zach Cortez expressed their enthusiasm about transitioning from gaming controllers to real-life competition, highlighting it as a unique opportunity for bonding with teammates.
The race course will extend down Main Street and will feature an array of challenges, including turns, jumps, and obstacles. Teams will perform pre-race skits, enhancing the playful spirit that defines the Red Bull Soapbox experience, which emphasizes creativity alongside racing performance. The origins of this event date back to 2000 in Belgium, and it has continued to rise in popularity, celebrating amateur craftsmanship and lively presentation.
One standout entry, Team “Orcs and Dorks,” is helmed by Hyrum Briscoe and harnesses a unique theme from “The Lord of the Rings” with their cart, “Grond the Gate Smasher.” Another local team, “Heidi’s Hooligans,” features a vehicle crafted from scrap materials, showcasing innovative design and team collaboration. The East Coast’s “Powder Pioneers,” known for their outdoor sports background, are also scheduled to compete with a vehicle inspired by the Wasatch Range.
As race day approaches, teams are preparing for a live audience, with no tickets required for spectators. The event will include an array of honorary judges from diverse backgrounds, enhancing the spectacle with a blend of athleticism and entertainment.
With the award ceremony slated for 3:30 PM recognizing the top three teams, the whole community is invited to cheer on the participants as they seek to etch their names in the history of this creative racing event. Live-streaming options are also available for those unable to attend in person. This exciting event promises to bring a sense of joy and camaraderie to all involved, showcasing the ingenuity and enthusiasm of amateur racers.