Edmonton’s Queen Elizabeth Park Road was alive with excitement and creativity as the Red Bull Soapbox Race unfolded in a spectacular display of daring designs and gravity-defying races.
The event kicked off at 2 p.m. as gates opened to a flood of eager spectators. By 3 p.m., the atmosphere was electric, with the opening ceremony featuring a land acknowledgment by Notorious Cree and a stirring rendition of the national anthem by Robert Clark. Joseph Schow, Alberta’s Minister of Tourism and Sport, officially opened the racecourse with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 3:10 p.m.
At 3:20 p.m., the first soapbox cars launched down the course, captivating the audience with their innovative designs and the sheer bravery of their drivers.
The event concluded with an awards ceremony at 6:30 p.m., where the top three teams took the podium amidst roaring applause. The Cock-A-Doodle Crew clinched first place with their incredible chicken-inspired performance and ‘cooped up’ soapbox. The Vignettes placed second with their meticulously crafted and amusing design, while the Oil City Rollers took third with their impeccably polished costumes and flawless performance.
The Milk Men were awarded the People’s Choice Award for their entertaining and crowd-pleasing design. The No Regretzkys achieved the fastest speed of the day, reaching an impressive 42 kilometres an hour.
Road closures were in effect throughout the event, and spectators were encouraged to use alternative transportation. Free shuttles ran every five minutes from Windsor Car Park and NAIT, ensuring smooth access to the event site. Many attendees opted for biking, with secure bike parking available near the Kinsmen Sports Centre.
The Red Bull Soapbox Race in Edmonton was a resounding success, bringing together the community for a day of thrilling races and creative expression. The event not only highlighted the inventive spirit of the participants but also provided a memorable experience for all who attended.