The Isle of Wight Soapbox Derby Challenge was first held in 2005 at Bouldnor (near Yarmouth) Isle of Wight. The aim of the event was to provide Island Youth with a stimulating out of school activity with the focus on fun first!

In 2006 the event migrated from Bouldnor to Pan (Newport) where it has been held since.
Soapbox Derby challenges young people to design & build carts which can then be raced against other entrants. The 100 metre Course starts with a purpose built ramp 3.5 m high with a 50% gradient and goes onto grass with chicanes before crossing the finish line.

Anyone can help design/build a cart but competitors have to be 12-20 years in order to race. Each team must have x 3 drivers. Winners are decided on aggregate times from head to head trials with a seeded finals race off.

The popularity of the Isle of Wight Soapbox Derby Challenge has gained interest from Hampshire and the National Soapbox Championships and is fast becoming one of the most popular events on the Islands youth calendar.

If you want to get involved in helping organise the event or on the day go to ‘contact us’ for details.