From generation to generation: soap box races on Hülser Berg in Krefeld

From generation to generation: soap box races on Hülser Berg in Krefeld

Am Hülser Berg in Krefeld on August 25, the colorful soap boxes are ready for an exciting race that combines the tradition and fun of self -construction. The event attracts participants of all ages-from ten-year-old young drivers to an 87-year-old veteran who started in the first race in 1951. This diversity is the special charm of the soap box race.

The race that arouses numerous memories is not only a competition for many, but also a family tradition. So the Hantschel family is closely linked to this event. The siblings Martin, Sandra and twelve -year -old Marie represent a generation of drivers who made the slopes unsafe over a decade ago. Marie, who will take the second time after a year break, has a lot going on. "I want to get over the top three," she admits optimistically, while finally taking the last steps on her box.

memories and traditions

Another participant, Peter Nieskens, could tell a whole series of stories. When he was 14, he and his friend were looking forward to their first race. "It was a big deal back then, the people were dressed in a suit and tie," he recalls. At that time, the soap boxes were still real craftsmanship without today's technical aids such as ball bearings or air -filled tires. "It was fun," said Nieskens, who will still be a special vehicle at the start as a 87-year-old.

Nieskens is an example of the consistency of the tradition that embodies the soap box race. He remembers the excitement and anticipation that existed at the time and will now intervene again in the racing. Together with the younger drivers, he shows that the race is not only for the children, but also for adults who revive their childhood memories.

The colorful variety of participants

The race not only does nostalgic moments, but also shows how creative and imaginative today's young drivers are. Milla Koch, another talent, has fulfilled her dream of your own soap box. The eleven -year -old Milla loves the pace and has constructed a box called "Fire Box Rainbow" with her father, which she decorated with red flames and a skull. "It will be exciting, I can't wait to race down the mountain!" Explains Milla, while practicing to test the cornering behavior.

Another example is the friends Hagen Schmitz and Ben Wieczorek. In the past few weeks, the two hobbyists have worked intensively on their own soap box, which is modeled on the look of a Mercedes-G class. With great attention to detail and support from your fathers, you have planned and implemented everything yourself. "It should be our masterpiece," both say proudly, while they report about the gigers and the fun of building.

The enthusiasm for the soap box race is particularly evident in the personal stories of the participants. The Krefeld youth welfare that organizes the event not only promotes the competition spirit, but also the community and creativity of children and adolescents. The race becomes a place where old and new generations come together to share their passion and create memories.

A look at the innovations

The soap box world has developed over the years, and the young drivers learn from the experience of the predecessors. Today the vehicles are often more modern and can wear very individual designs. Trends such as colorful paints and unusual shapes are characterized by the racing and ensure that the participants can proudly look at their creatures.

The anticipation for the race is also the highest, although not only the children look forward to the rapid journey, but also the adults who look forward to the performance of the young pilots. The atmosphere on the Hülser Berg will certainly be contagious. The past and present meet while the boxes fight down the mountain.

The spirit of the soap box race

The soap box race on the Hülser Berg traditionally not only brings together speed fans, but is also an expression of joy in creativity and the craftsmanship of the participants. Each vehicle tells its own story, and all the different approaches and designs show how diverse and exciting this special race day can be across generations.

The development of the soap box race

The soap box race on Hülser Berg has a long and traditional story that goes back to the post-war period. The first competition took place in 1951 and quickly became a popular event in the region. Soap boxes were originally built as simple, non -motorized wooden vehicles that were constructed by young people themselves. The popularity of such races was inspired by the American "Soap Box Derby" culture, which introduced this as a kind of organized leisure activity.

In the past few decades, the soap box driving has developed. There are now different competition classes and the level of the constructions has increased. The soap boxes are often slightly, but more stable due to innovative designs and materials. This not only promotes competition, but also the use of manual skill and creativity.

technological progress and choice of material

Today's soap boxes are often constructed with new materials such as aluminum and light plastics to reduce weight and increase speed. Artistic paints and adjustments to the vehicles are now just as important as security.

An example of these developments are the large -scale use of air -filled tires that ensure better grip and less rolling resistance. The designers particularly make sure that the vehicles remain stable and at the same time are aerodynamic. The mechanics behind the steering system has also refined to ensure more precise control, which is crucial for security and the racing experience.

Social aspects of the soap box race

soap box races are not only a sporting event, but also a social event that brings families and friends together. Many participants, whose families have been participating in these races for generations, see a way to maintain traditions and to promote manual skills.

In addition, the race offers a platform for promoting teamwork and creativity. Younger participants have the opportunity to learn from older generations while implementing their own ideas. Such events strengthen the sense of community within the neighborhood and offer a valuable opportunity to consolidate the social bonds.

The soap box race has established itself as an unforgettable experience not only for the drivers, but also for the numerous spectators who want to pursue the exciting races live and who want to experience the passion and ambition of the young designers up close.