Darling Soapbox Derby

The idea of putting together an event to bring the different Darling communities together, as well as something for parents to do with their children, was kicked around for some time. (Normally on the stoep of a local watering hole at the end of a hard working day). As friends and colleagues pondering this challenge all work in motor related industries, the idea of a go-kart race evolved naturally.

The first Darling Soapbox Derby was held in 2005 and has been growing in popularity year after year.

Last year the event was even filmed by "Let's Play", a programme devoted to children's sports on the Supersport channel. Popular Mechanics entered the race and although they had to forfeit due to punctures, they enjoyed it thoroughly and are now getting ready for this year's race!

This year marks the fourth annual Darling Soapbox Derby. Children, residents and local businesses build their own soapbox carts and race each other down a steep hill in Darling.
The whole community comes together, old and young, men and women, employees and their employers, colleagues, you name it!

Each soapbox cart is unique with it's own personality given by faces, grins and other kinds of decoration. And with the soapbox carts all having different sizes you will sometimes see a tiny cart taking on a monster-on-wheels!

The street is dotted with spectators and everybody is excited. They cheer and laugh and sometimes worry a little, but altogether it is a great experience!

The prizes are usually given out by Darling's most famous resident, Pieter Dirk-Uys, and everyone wins a prize.

There are two classes: Classic (Private Cart) - R10 and Open Class (Sponsored Cart) - R100

Build your own cart and let's see how well you fare against the others!