soapbox

Meet the Sponsors

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 11:30:21 GMT

Powering the Derby: Meet the Sponsors Behind BSB25

A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Sponsors

As the wheels spin, the crowd cheers, and the atmosphere buzzes across Chalet Hill, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of the Bordon Soapbox Derby. But behind the thrills, behind the scenes, and behind every detail that makes this day possible is a generous network of local sponsors who have stepped up not for applause, but out of pure community spirit.

We pause to say, thank you.

Supporting More Than Just a Race

The Bordon Soapbox Derby is more than just a fun day out. It’s a platform for change, a moment of joy that drives real impact. And none of that would be possible without the sponsorship of local businesses and organisations who’ve provided everything from funding and logistics, to creative energy and sheer belief in what we’re building together.

These sponsors have helped cover the real costs of this event—from insurance and infrastructure to materials, printing, signage, safety, and entertainment. And by doing so, they’ve freed up the vital funds raised through donations to go directly where they’re needed most—our four chosen community causes.

Trackside Thanks

Walking down the course today, you’ll see trackside banners, flags, and signage lining the route. These aren’t just ads. They’re statements. They say: “We believe in community. We’re part of this.”

To every company who sponsored a trackside banner, helped us raise visibility, or supported the logistics of building this temporary racecourse—thank you. You’ve helped us create a visual spectacle and a safe, exciting space for thousands to enjoy.

In Print and On Record

Our official Soapbox Magazine is now in the hands of thousands of visitors—and it proudly features dozens of adverts and shoutouts from our sponsors. These pages are more than just information—they are a tribute to the community of businesses that rally behind this event.

Whether it’s a full-page placement or a small mention, every entry is a mark of your commitment to our town. And when the day is over, this magazine will live on in homes as a memento of what we achieved together.

Funding Real Change

Thanks to your sponsorship, we’ve been able to allocate meaningful funding to four causes that matter deeply to our community:

Bordon Food Bank, helping families in crisis
The Green Room School, supporting children with emotional and educational needs
Greatham School, fundraising for a much-needed all-weather sports pitch
Help for Heroes, honouring and assisting our Armed Forces families

Your support helps us transform adrenaline and applause into real action—and for that, we are truly grateful.

Not Just Sponsors—Partners in Purpose

This event is proudly 100% not-for-profit. It’s built by volunteers, run by the community, and supported by businesses who see value in people over profit. Our sponsors are not just names on a board—they are neighbours, friends, local champions.

You’ve backed the dream, fuelled the fun, and helped make this one of Hampshire’s most vibrant and meaningful community events.

With Gratitude, From All of Us at Soapbox HQ

To every single sponsor who helped make this year’s event possible—whether through banners, magazine ads, in-kind donations, time, or encouragement—we offer our sincere thanks. Your support has brought smiles, created memories, and helped change lives.

So when you see a sponsor’s name today—on a banner, in the magazine, or online—take a moment to thank them too. Support their business. Share their page. Let them know their contribution matters.

Here’s to racing for a reason. Here’s to sponsors who care.

#ThankYouSponsors #BSB25 #CommunityFirst #BordonSoapbox

Meet the Comperes

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 11:06:56 GMT

Meet the Voices of BSB25: Stu Morrison & Glen Lynch

When you hear the roar of the crowd, the rev of the karts, and the laughter rolling down Chalet Hill—it’s likely being stirred up by our two unforgettable Soapbox comperes: Stu Morrison and Glen Lynch.

Stu Morrison: The Man, the Moustache, the Mic

Once seen, never forgotten—Stu Morrison is a force of personality wrapped in a loud suit and topped with a legendary moustache. Part town crier, part entertainer, and 100% community spirit, Stu is a cornerstone of the Soapbox experience.

From co-presenting Football Focus dressed as Borat, to appearances on Trisha (as Ali G) and Richard & Judy (as “Littler Britain”), Stu’s comedic presence and infectious energy light up the track. Whether interviewing racers, riffing with the crowd, or announcing epic soapbox moments, Stu makes the event feel as good as it looks.

He’s also a business owner, web entrepreneur, designer, and writer—proving that behind the charisma is a serious dedication to community and creativity.

Glen Lynch: The Voice That Moves the Masses

Joining Stu is Glen Lynch, a masterful vocalist, songwriter, and storyteller. Glen’s voice has been compared to rock legends like Roger Daltrey and Steve Marriott, his lyrics painting vivid scenes of everyday life, working-class struggle, and joy.

This marks Glen’s third Soapbox appearance—solidifying him as a fan favourite and an essential part of the BSB family. When he’s not captivating the crowd with witty commentary and on-stage charisma, Glen performs with The Sunset Donkeys, an English-American rock band featuring Chris Constantinou, Preston Heyman, Hal Lindes, and Glen himself. Their debut single ‘Setting It All On Fire’ is now out—and fittingly, so is the track at BSB25!

Whether you’re racing, spectating, or just soaking in the sunshine and soap suds, keep your ears open and your phones ready. Stu and Glen are here to guide, entertain, and amplify the heart of the event. Don’t forget to say hi—or better yet, grab a selfie with two of the most iconic voices of the Bordon Soapbox Derby.

#BSB25 | @bordonsoapbox | Let’s race. Let’s laugh. Let’s remember why we’re here.

The Soapbox Magazine

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 09:47:10 GMT

It’s Soapbox Season: Get Involved, Get Seen, Give Back

We’re now rolling into Soapbox season with more ways than ever to get involved, show your support, and give back to the community.

Trackside Banners – Visibility with Impact.

For just £150, you can secure your own trackside banner—a brilliant way to showcase your brand to 10,000+ spectators on race day.

Here’s the best part:

You keep the banner
All profits go to local charities

Simply upload your artwork online, we’ll handle the rest. It’s a visibility boost and a great cause all in one.

Advertise in the Official Soapbox 2025 Magazine.

This year, we’re also opening up advertising space in our official race day magazine. With full, half, and quarter page options, it’s a great way to get your business in front of a highly engaged audience.

Advertising Rates.
• Full Page – £240
• Half Page – £130
• Quarter Page – £75

Whether you’re a small startup, a local legend, or just love what the Soapbox stands for—this is your chance to be part of the action.

It’s all about celebrating our community, supporting local causes, and making July 20th unforgettable.

Get involved at: www.bordonsoapbox.co.uk

Soapbox x DrivenLife

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 09:35:22 GMT

We’re proud to officially launch a high-octane collaboration between Gasoline Alley and Driven Life at this year’s Bordon Soapbox Sunday, July 20 2025!

A Showcase Like No Other

From 9 AM to 12 PM, the EV Car Park behind The Shed will roar to life—not just with electric vehicles, but with an eclectic lineup curated by the passionate Driven Life crew

Expect.

Classic & Custom Cars
Supercars & Performance Machines
Bikes & Special Builds

Why You’ll Love It.

Whether you're a petrolhead, snap-happy photographer, or family looking for something fun and free, Gasoline Alley offers a feast for the senses. It’s about insider stories from proud owners, "photo‑worthy" moments, and sharing the thrill of automotive culture

Community Powered, Community Focused.

Organised by gazillion volunteers and local groups, this joint initiative supports our community spirit—bringing people together, showcasing local flair, and boosting local charities. And yes, public entry is totally free :)

How to Get Involved.

Vehicle Owners & Enthusiasts: Register your pride and joy (car or bike) online from just £0. The Soapbox team will confirm your spot and technical details
Spectators: Show up from 9 AM to wander through the display and enjoy that unmistakable engine rumble.
Photographers & Media: Come capture rare angles of roaring classics and sleek show-stoppers.
Supporters & Sponsors: Interested in trackside banners or magazine ads? Visit our advertising page or contact us to plug into the audience of 10,000+ bordonsoapbox.co.uk .

In Partnership With…

We’d also like to thank our driving collaborators over at Driven Life, their curated expertise makes this showcase possible. From EVs to roaring petrolheads, their commitment made this Gasoline Alley exhibit come to life.

Save the Date.

�� Sunday, July 20, 2025
�� The Shed EV Car Park, Whitehill & Bordon

Bring your curiosity, cameras, and community spirit. Gasoline Alley is revving up to be a highlight of Bordon Soapbox 2025—don’t miss it!

Share the Excitement.

Love what you see? Please like, share, and tag someone who would love to attend. Let’s make this a community-fuelled celebration to remember!

How to Build a Winning Soapbox Racer

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 08:27:06 GMT

How to Build a Winning Soapbox Racer for the 2025 Bordon Soapbox Race

The Bordon Soapbox Race is back in 2025, and it's time to get creative and competitive! Building a winning soapbox car requires a blend of engineering, creativity, and some outside-the-box thinking. Here’s a guide to constructing a race-ready soapbox vehicle, packed with tips from seasoned racers.

1. Start with a Solid Chassis

Your chassis is the backbone of your soapbox racer. Stability is key—whether you use the base of an old lawnmower, trailer, or build your own custom frame. Many racers opt for plywood, which provides a balance between lightweight and structural strength. A flat, stretched-out frame design ensures better balance, giving you more control during sharp turns and steep slopes.

2. Keep the Bodywork Light (and Sacrificial!)

Your outer bodywork doesn’t have to be indestructible; in fact, parts falling off during the race is fine, as long as it doesn't affect the car’s performance. Use materials like cardboard or polystyrene for a lightweight frame that’s easy to mold into creative shapes. Don’t worry if a part flies off mid-race—sacrificial bodywork is expected!

3. Choose the Right Wheels

The wheels can make or break your race performance. Pram or bicycle wheels may look good but can buckle under pressure. Go for something thicker, like moped or trailer wheels, which provide better stability and are less likely to wobble at high speeds. Investing in durable wheels will help you stay on track, especially on rough terrain.

4. Don’t Forget the Brakes!

Safety first! Your soapbox must have working brakes on at least two wheels, as per race regulations. You can rig up a simple pulley system or repurpose disc brakes from an old bike. If you're in a pinch, even office chair parts can be repurposed into a functioning brake system—just make sure it works!

5. Add Some Suspension

Bouncing over ramps can wreck a soapbox without suspension. If possible, incorporate shocks from old bicycle suspension forks or partner with local businesses to source race-worthy suspension components. Proper suspension absorbs the bumps and improves handling, keeping your racer in one piece.

6. Call in Some Favours

Building a soapbox can be resource-intensive, but you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to local businesses for sponsorships or donations—maybe a go-kart track has an extra seat, or a fabrication shop can cut chassis parts for you. Stick some logos on the car in exchange for their help.

7. Get Creative with Moving Parts

Innovation sets great soapbox racers apart from the rest. One team built moving pistons out of Red Bull cans using a drill mechanism, which wowed the judges and spectators alike. Think outside the box and create interactive elements to stand out, especially during the pre-race walkthroughs.

8. Ensure Steering Stability

Reliable steering is critical for navigating downhill courses at high speeds. Go-kart steering columns are often repurposed for soapbox cars, but make sure they’re secure and offer just the right amount of sensitivity. Too much movement can make the vehicle unstable, while too little can hinder control.

9. Avoid a Front-End Overload

A common mistake is placing too much weight at the front, which can cause the bodywork to scrape and break at the start ramp. Ensure the front has some ground clearance to absorb small dips or divots where the ramp meets the road.

10. Play to Your Team’s Strengths

Not everyone is a mechanic, but that doesn’t mean your soapbox can’t be awesome. If your team has people skilled in art, design, or welding, focus on what they excel at to build a unique and functional racer. Teams with standout creativity often leave a lasting impression.

11. Find a Theme

Theming your soapbox car adds to the fun and enhances creativity. Whether you choose to race as a zombie hunter, a superhero, or even a giant gas mask, having a narrative can make your build more engaging for spectators and judges alike.

12. Safety First: Keep Well Padded

Even though soapbox races are primarily for fun, accidents can happen. Ensure that the driver is well-padded with appropriate safety gear, like helmets and knee pads. Some themes, like a zombie apocalypse, even work well with protective gear, so find a way to integrate safety into the style.

13. Learn from Your Mistakes

Every race is a learning opportunity. If you’ve competed in soapbox races before, think about what went wrong and what can be improved. In one case, a two-person design led to handling problems, so the team switched to a single-driver setup, improving balance and control.

14. Test, Test, Test!

Never skip a proper test run. Take your soapbox over hills and jumps to ensure the suspension and frame hold up. You don’t want to discover structural weaknesses on race day, so make time for adjustments before the big event.

With these tips, your team will be well on its way to building a creative and competitive soapbox car for the 2025 Bordon Soapbox Race. Happy building, and may the fastest (or most imaginative) car win!

Thank you 2023 Soapbox!

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 08:05:32 GMT

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On behalf of the entire Bordon Soapbox team, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the racers, resellers, and incredible volunteers who made the 2023 Bordon Soapbox an outstanding success. Your unwavering dedication and passion brought life and excitement to the event, creating an unforgettable experience for all.

We were truly amazed by the incredible support from both our hardworking volunteers, who went above and beyond to ensure everything ran smoothly, and the enthusiastic spectators who cheered on the racers with infectious energy. Your collective efforts made this year's soapbox race a tremendous celebration of community spirit and camaraderie.

We are truly humbled by your participation and cannot thank each and every one of you enough for making the 2023 Bordon Soapbox an event to remember!

The Soapbox 2023

Sun, 18 Dec 2022 14:05:56 GMT

Bring out your inner Hamilton with Bordon's 23 Soapbox Derby!

On Sunday 23rd July 2023 Bordon will transform part of the town into a community driven soapbox spectacle as we launch the official Bordon Soapbox Derby.

A community based event with limited spaces available to racers, traders and event sponsors. We will of course require support of volunteers on the day. You can register your interest and help us in building the community event by submitting your details on our join us + page

As we develop the event (it has already been months in the making to get to this stage), we can already advise our plans below;

Super Exciting and Thrilling Race Track

Chicanes, jumps, elevated start line and super fast zone's!

Pitstop Alley

Food, drink and merchandise from local producers, companies and brands

VIP Zone

A sponsored zone to catch all the action with hospitality included

Audio Visual

A large screen with live footage, action, results and drones.

Social Growth

Engage with your community as we provide exclusive content with ongoing race day builds, racers and business

Smart App

Piston Design are working to produce a mobile application for full spectator integration and engagement.

Exclusive Drivers

Some names have already been put forward including a few guest drivers!

Supercar Paddock @TheShed

An authentic Formula One Car will be amongst a line up of exotic supercars on show

BDN Fun Fair

To ensure all spectators are catered for - Jubilee Park will host a traditional fun fair.

Much, Much More!

We are a small group, but looking to provide a superb event for everyone to enjoy!

As we work on the detail - our social media accounts are now live @bordonsoapbox - give us a follow, share as much as you can and throw a like as we work hard behind the scenes to bring this special event to the residents, local businesses and surrounding communities in 2023.

Thank you for the support.

Bordon Soapbox HQ