The 14th Allan Haan Soapbox Derby took over Beaverwood Road in Manotick on Sunday with nearly 40 derby carts participating. Young riders between the ages of seven and 17 had a chance to speed down a hill with homemade carts. “This is about getting these kids out in the community to work with their families, to build their own little soapbox derby carts, and then to race them,” said Catherine Seaman, director of events for the Manotick Village and Community Association. “We know because not everybody is able to build their own... we have loaner carts so that people can just register and they race one of our loaner carts.” Ten-year-old participant Quinn Prince won the most decorated award for his homemade Ghostbusters cart two years ago. “I’ve done this for three years. It’s really fun,” said Prince, “I was eight at the time and I just really liked Ghostbusters.” He was hoping to win another trophy again this year. “I’m really happy. I didn’t expect second [place],” said Prince. Quinn said next year, he’s hoping for more speed down the hill. Allan Haan a resident of Manotick, founded the derby 15 years ago. “I happened to be driving through Orléans and I got diverted, and there was a soapbox derby going on many years ago in Orléans. I stopped and had a look and said, ‘hey we got a pretty good hill in Manotick,’” said Haan. Since then, the popular event continues to grow and draws in hundreds of spectators to cheer on the racers. “I’m very grateful that I’m still vertical so I can participate,” said Haan. The event was followed by a picnic in the park with activities for the kids, a live band, food, and a good opportunity for the community to come together. “It’s a nice way to finish the event. It’s a good way to be a part of the community,” said attendee Anne-Marie Revie. After being postponed on Canada Day, the event will wrap up with a drone show in Centennial Park.
