April 2007
Soap Box Derby
Soap box derbies—children’s races in home-made carts—became popular in Germany in the post-war years, when bicycles and other toys were too expensive for most families. American GIs encouraged the sport, and annual championship races were held on Munich’s Gebsattelberg beginning in 1948. As the economy recovered, racing slowed to a halt. During the celebrations for the 150th anniversary of Haidhausen, however, the tradition was revived, and a race will take place again this year on May 1
at 12:45 pm on the Gebsattelberg in Au, near Mariahilfsplatz. Registration (for € 10) will begin at 9 am, or email seifenkisten@ullrich.martini.name
before race day.
