Bradford Super Soapbox Challenge date revealed - here's how you can take part
THE date when a popular Bradford city centre event will take place for a fourth time has been announced.
The Super Soapbox Challenge, which runs from Kirkgate down Bank Street and onto Tyrrel Street - has attracted nearly 50,000 visitors to the city over the last three years.
There were some doubts that the event might not take place in 2025 when organisers were calling for external sponsorship funding last November.
But now they have been given the go-ahead and are encouraging wacky racers to sign up for the challenge on Sunday, May 4.
This year, as Bradford celebrates its City of Culture year, the event promises to be bigger and better than ever.
All of last year's competitors (Image: Faye Kenny-Broom)
Bradford's Super Soapbox Challenge has become a major Bank Holiday attraction.
Participants build their own soapbox cart and race it down the giant ramp through the city centre, competing for the fastest lap time.
Previous designs have included hamburgers, a 1920s theme, superheroes and a bat mobile.
Last year, 23 teams took part in the event and it was opened by Danny Malin - of the popular YouTube channel Rate My Takeaway.
YouTube star Danny Malin opened the races (Image: Faye Kenny-Broom)
Jonny Noble, Bradford BID's Chief Executive, said: "The Bradford Super Soapbox Challenge is not just a fantastic spectacle; it plays an important role in supporting city centre businesses.
"Events like this bring thousands of people into the heart of Bradford, boosting footfall for shops, cafés, and restaurants.
"This year, as we celebrate Bradford's City of Culture status, it is more important than ever to showcase what our city has to offer and create a lively, welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
"It will also be a brilliant opportunity to show off the transformative public realm works in the heart of the city centre.
"We can't wait to see the incredible designs teams come up with.'
One of the carts in 2024 (Image: Steven Ward (T&A Camera Club))
Andrew Pearson, Marketing Director for Super Soapbox Challenge, added: "It's great news we'll be returning to Bradford for a fourth year.
"Whether it's your first time competing or you're a returning team, the event is a brilliant opportunity for a fun-filled day out.
"It's all about team spirit, raising money for great causes, and enjoying the excitement of the race.
"We've got plenty of advice and tips for those taking part, and we're looking forward to seeing the creative entries from Bradford this year."
Thousands come out for the event (Image: Faye Kenny-Broom)
The event is free for spectators to enjoy, while entry fees for teams are £100 for individuals, BID-levy paying businesses, and charities, or £200 for non-levy paying corporate entries.
Additional prizes include most innovative cart design and best turned-out crew.
Teams looking to take part can sign up by visiting https://supersoapboxchallenge.co.uk/bradford/
For businesses interested in sponsorship opportunities, or for further event details, get in touch with Andrew Pearson at The Super Soapbox Challenge Company: andrew@supersoapboxchallenge.co.uk
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