On March 3, 2024, the Ramanaidu Studios in Film Nagar, Hyderabad, became the epicenter of high-energy and inventiveness, hosting the much-anticipated Red Bull Soapbox Race. With all tickets sold out in advance, the event attracted thousands of spectators eager to witness the blend of speed, creativity, and sheer fun that defines soapbox racing.
A Celebration of Ingenuity and Speed
The Red Bull Soapbox Race, a globally recognized event with iterations in countries such as Spain, Italy, the UK, the USA, France, and Germany, brought its unique brand of excitement to Hyderabad. Competitors from across the region, culled from over 3300 registrations across 23 Indian states, descended the slopes of Ramanaidu Studios in 28 creatively engineered carts. These vehicles, powered only by gravity, showcased the participants’ brilliance in design and dexterity in handling the course’s challenging twists and obstacles.
From Dreams to Reality
This year’s race was a spectacle of both aesthetics and athleticism, with vehicles ranging from sleek, aerodynamic models to those inspired by humor and whimsy. The event underlined the essence of soapbox racing: a fusion of technical skill and imaginative design, propelling these homemade vehicles to impressive speeds without any mechanical propulsion.
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Triumphant Teams and Celebrated Guests
The Hyderabad team, Kraken Wagen, clinched the title, winning a fully paid Red Bull Racing F1 experience. Not far behind, Kith and Kin 2.0 from Mumbai secured second place, with the local favorite, Biryani ki Sawaari, taking third. The event was further elevated by the presence of notable personalities such as Rana Daggubati, who, along with the audience, reveled in the teams’ inventive spirit.
A Day of Entertainment
Beyond the race, attendees enjoyed a day packed with entertainment, from live music and food stalls to interactive exhibits. The event’s vibrant atmosphere was amplified by hosts Aaditya Kulshreshth, alongside celebrities like Rohan Joshi and the Jordindian duo, ensuring laughter and enjoyment filled the air.
Accessible Everywhere
For those unable to attend in person, the event was live-streamed on JioTV, ensuring no one missed out on the action. Brand partners such as Smart Bazaar, Swiggy Instamart, Philips OneBlade, Asian Cinemas, and BookMyShow, each added their unique touch, with some even sending their themed carts down the racecourse.
Judged by a panel of renowned athletes and personalities, including Tania Sachdev and Manpreet Singh, the event was a testament to the spirit of competition and creativity. The Red Bull Soapbox Race 2024 in Hyderabad not only celebrated the engineering and imagination of its participants but also offered a memorable experience for spectators and competitors alike.