Soap Box Challenge comes to Hartley Wintney – Sponsored by Bates Solicitors

Race 1 on the card for the annual Hartley Wintney Pram Race 2016 is the ‘Toddlers Dolly & Teddy’ Race for 4/5-year-olds, 20 yards run across the quintessentially bucolic Cricket Green cheered by villagers and visitors at the beginning of a full programme of afternoon fun for all ages.

The schedule includes Juniors, Whizz Kids, Skateboards, The Professionals, Charity Fancy Dress Race and culminates in the new Soapbox Challenge complete with a starting ramp and obstacles including the ‘Boneshaker’, ‘Damage Ramp’ and the ‘Speed Chicane’.     As with the popular TV race, this event is a time trial and the fastest time to the finish is the winner.

As well as the race events, there will be Bouncy Castles and other children’s activities together with a delicious BBQ provided by Courtyard Cafe.

Bates Solicitors Marketing Director Laura Roberts commented “This firm is delighted to sponsor the Hartley Wintney Pram Race 2016 which offers everyone an opportunity to enjoy a traditional village event with a modern twist.   This is the second year I have had the pleasure of personally being involved in the lead up to the Pram Race.   It offers a great opportunity to engage with other local businesses so they too can be involved in this ‘fun for all’ charity fundraising occasion”.

The Pram race has taken place each summer for a number of years.   Long-time residents of Hartley Wintney will recall that the pram race originally took place on Boxing Day and featured spectacular sprint races.

Jointly organised by St Johns Church, Rotary Club of Hart and The Friends of Hartley Wintney, the event again raises funds for Naomi House and Jacks Place (Hospices for children and young adults), Winchester.

Prize giving at 4.00 pm by the Cricket Club which this year also will include the brand new Constructors Cup for the best entry.

If you would like to enter visit www.stjohnshw.org.uk/pram-race.   There are some interesting ideas for Go Carts and Soapbox vehicles at www.kartbuilding.net.

Images courtesy of Rotary Club of Hart

If you are interested in the history of Soapbox racing search the internet including Wikipedia  which includes a link to a 1914 film starring Charlie Chaplin.