Bundoran RNLI Soapbox Race back for 5th Year

Following last year’s cancellation of the event due to unfavourable weather conditions, the volunteer lifeboat crew are this year determined to make the fundraising event even better than ever.

The current holders of the title of Soapbox Champions are Bundoran’s Ward Automation and they are anxious to retain their title.

Spectators can expect the usual excitement that they have grown to expect since the event began back in 2012 with participants encouraged to begin the build of their soapbox so that it is ready on time.   The €1,000 ball race will also make a welcome return on the day with balls being sold for €5 - each ball is numbered and then released down the hill.  The first ball through the funnel at the end will win the €1,000 which has been donated by local businesses.  Balls will be on sale on the day.

The event will kick off at midday with a skate competition as local longboarders display their skills in advance of the soapbox race. The soapbox race will follow with the day coming to a close with the ball race.

Cormac McGurren, Bundoran RNLI Event Coordinator is encouraging all budding soapboxers to start building: ‘The countdown is on and we want to see as many soapboxes taking part as is possible. We would love to see all the local businesses involved and competing against each other to have plenty of friendly rivalry on the day. We would also encourage locals and visitors alike to come along and enjoy a good day out. All proceeds raised will go to helping our volunteers in Bundoran to continue to save lives at sea.’

All the details of the day can be found on our website www.bundoranlifeboatsoapboxrace.com and you can also download a registration form from there as well. This is a great family day out and we look forward to seeing many of our supporters on Sunday June 5th.

Ends

Key facts about the RNLI

The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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