Madison Avenue Soapbox Derby Set For Saturday

DECATUR, GA -- This fall, scores of racing enthusiasts will gather in Decatur’s Oakhurst neighborhood for a day of food, fun and fast wheels. The Madison Ave Soapbox Derby will be held Saturday, Oct. 7.

The non-motorized racing event involves amateur racers designing, building and racing soapbox cars downhill. The fastest and most creative cars get prizes in the races, which will be divided by age groups. (SIGN UP: Get Patch's Daily Newsletter and Real Time News Alerts. Or, if you have an iPhone, download the free Patch app.)

The best thing about the race? It's all for a good cause. The Madison Avenue Soapbox Derby has raised more than $100,000 for local children-based charities. Last year's event drew 1,000 attendees and featured close to 100 racers, the organizers said.

If you don't know a thing about soapbox racing, don't worry: Before the race, derby organizers will be available to offer technical guidance to those who are up to the challenge of designing and building their cars.

To volunteer or be an event sponsor, visit madisonavesoapboxderby.org.

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“The Madison Avenue Soapbox Derby brings out the community spirit that makes Decatur so special,” said Raul Trujillo, a founding member of the derby and Madison Avenue resident for nearly 20 years. “We are fortunate to have strong support from the City of Decatur, local businesses, and countless volunteers, all united around helping youth in our community.”

The event began in 2011 when a group of good-natured neighbors came together for some fun, live music and drinks. Today, the race is one of Decatur's premiere events. Proceeds from this year’s race will go to Decatur Robotics, a technology initiative serving local youths.

Image via Pixabay