25,000 people attend the Red Bull soapbox race in Toulouse
It was the fifth edition of the soapbox descent course organized by Red Bull in France, and the first in Toulouse. Many spectators were there this Sunday afternoon, on the hill of Pech David, south of Toulouse. An organization even a little overwhelmed at times by the crowd. In total, 49 crews raced down a 530 meter long slope. 40 crews made up of pilots and co-pilots from all over France and nine VIP crews (including a crew from the Stade Toulousain).
The 25,000 spectators heard about the event on social media and on television, on a sports channel which broadcasts soapbox lessons. Giant screens made it possible to follow the event to those who could not access the edges of the race.
Families, the curious, enthusiasts were present to admire boxes designed and decorated with imagination. The decor depended on the final score of the jury. Boxes made up thanks to the recycling of bicycles, mopeds, strollers, mowers… Crazy boats, like that of a Marseille crew in the shape of a tin of sardines. On board, a pilot and a co-pilot, well protected with helmets, gloves, knee pads… The empty weight of the body must be less than 80 kg, no energy source is authorized.
The course, four meters wide, was strewn with pitfalls: steps, a double speed bump, and a big 180 degree turn, you also had to pass between rugby posts. A jury decided between the participants (in which the Toulouse rappers Bigflo and Oli, the former ski champion Luc Alphand, the rally driver Sébastien Ogier, among others, stood out.)