Ready, Set, Soapbox!

No matter how good the local 'scene' is, there are only so many live music shows, funky bars and street fairs someone can take before they start craving something different. If that's how you're feeling, then this Saturday offers a treat: the Red Bull Soapbox Race. You may have already seen their commercials, in which case you're either gung-ho, confused, or have already decided its stupid. (If you fall into the last camp, there's not likely to be much of interest to you in this article or on this blog in general.)

For everyone else, let me just assure you that this is no stupid stunt. Ok, well it is a stupid stunt, but a gloriously stupid stunt, with wacky little cars hurtling down College Hill competing on speed or the insanity of their vehicles. For those of you who remember the street luge held when the Gravity Games were held here (oh happy days), imagine that but with miniature parade floats.

The first race is at 1pm, but you can go as early as 11:00 to check out the pits, say hi to the teams, and probably get some free Red Bull. The last race is at 3:00, and then there's an awards ceremony.

There are a bunch of local teams involved: I'm rooting for the Rhode Island Reds out of historical appreciation. (I'll change my allegiance to Team Spikes if they'll hook me up with free hot dogs. I can be bought.

The starting line is at Fones Alley and Prospect Street. Most of the race then runs down Waterman, to the finish line at the bottom of the hill. I assure you, if you're anyhwere near Brown on Saturday afternoon, you won't be able to miss it. And you won't want to.


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