Culture and society

Soapbox adventures

DEUTSCHKURSE | Harry-Folge-037-Landeskunde-Bild
Soapbox races aren't only held in Leipzig.null DW

Too bad Harry is stuck in a time warp. Instead of chasing after Anderson, he could go on a real adventure in Leipzig. Once a year, early in May, a Seifenkistenrennen (soapbox derby) is held at Fockeberg hill in the southern part of the city. A soapbox is a self-made, motorless cart with at least three wheels. Usually, they're made of old junk turned into carefully constructed vehicles, complete with brakes, of course. Because these odd little vehicles don't have an engine, they require gravity to accelerate. A hill is just the thing – and this is where the Fockeberg comes into play.

Thousands of spectators cheer on drivers in the wild, downhill race. Many brave drivers seem to believe that skilled steering and minimal brake use are the keys to victory. A strict jury monitors the race and declares the winners in various categories, such as speed, the beauty of motion and design. The Fockeberg derby is famous for its enthusiastic racers and their imaginative creations. Unlike many soapbox races, this one is mainly for adults – so Harry wouldn't be too old to take part!