With excited race fans lining Stone Avenue, the second annual Soap Box Races kicked off, Sunday, June 5, to much fanfare.
Throughout the afternoon, kids and adults alike piled into soap box racers to make their way down Stone Avenue’s hill toward the roundabout.
There were only a few spills, but thankfully the racers’ brakes have been improved upon since last year.
A community success, races will continue Thursday, June 9, during the championship races, beginning at 6 p.m.
With 33 soap box cars created, this second annual event proves that the event is growing in popularity.
Also growing in popularity is the organizing group – the Youth Explosion youth group that runs out of the Lake Cowichan Christian Fellowship Church.
“It ran in front of the church on Sunday, so we thought, let’s get involved,” youth pastor Joseph Bott said.
Since the decision was made, local kids got involved. The same youth that ran the concession during the Sunday time trials will also be on-hand Thursday, to offer snacks and refreshments to those attending the event.
“The kids are definitely developing their leadership skills,” Bott said.
Proceeds will go toward funding various Youth Explosion outings.
Trophies will be handed out following Thursday’s final races, with awards going to the fastest racers in the three age categories; six to nine, 10 to 13, and open age.
For more on this year’s Lake Days festivities, read this week’s issue of the Lake Cowichan Gazette, which is complete with a 16 page pull-out section on the festivities, including an in depth schedule of events.
