Soapbox racing draws Swiss families and high-tech machines

Interest in soapbox racing is rising again in Switzerland, with family teams and increasingly sophisticated vehicles taking part, SRF reports.

For 12-year-old Ramon, race day begins before 5 a.m. He travels from eastern Switzerland to Buchs in the canton of Zurich, where he and his team set up a tent, unload their equipment and inspect the course.

“I associate soapbox racing not only with a hobby, but with a great experience,” Ramon says. “We are like one big family.” Competitors help one another when a wheel breaks, while still competing for the best result.

Ramon’s family travels to the races together. His sister also competes, while his father, Remo Michel, sits on the board of the Soapbox Derby Association. Parents mainly build and maintain the vehicles while their children race them, Michel says.

Teams from across Switzerland take part in the events, which attract an average of 50 to 70 competitors. Participation peaked in the 1990s, when more than 100 drivers sometimes had to qualify for races. Interest fell during the coronavirus pandemic but has recently begun to rise again, with more people applying to organise races and increased media interest.

Michel believes the events appeal because they give families an opportunity to spend time together. He sees soapbox racing as a possible alternative to the gaming world, where people often spend time alone indoors.

The vehicles have also evolved. “When we started, we thought it was just a board with a body, brakes and steering,” Ramon says. “But there is much more to it. They are now real high-tech machines.” His family bought one of Switzerland’s best vehicles, equipped with good suspension and a stable body that remains steady at top speed.

Builders consider factors including weight distribution, aerodynamics and damping. However, Michel says the driver still accounts for 90 percent of a successful run. Some vehicles in use are 15 or 20 years old and still carry children to victory.

Ramon’s goal is to reach the podium, something he has not yet achieved. He missed out at the race in Buchs, but it is unlikely to be his last attempt.