L.A. Soapbox Derby, Real Drag

I took my grandson to the Red Bull sponsored first Los Angeles Soapbox Derby race today. To say it was a complete disappointment is an understatement.

First off, it was a hot day, and the race was to take place at 1:00 p.m., so pretty much the hottest part of the day. But, hey, I was prepared. Packed up both of our portable chairs, had my little umbrella and even a battery operated fan that clipped onto my chair. I packed lunch with plenty of Capri Sun coolers, handi wipes, and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.

When we got there, we found a perfect spot, right in front next to the railing and the bales of hay, where the races would end. Across the way was the jumbo screen, so you could see the race from the beginning on the screen, and view the ending right in front of us.

First a regulation NASCAR car came down the course, and right in front of us did a loop turn. That was cool, and I got it on video.

Next, the skydivers jumped out of the helicopter and landed. That was cool too. I only got a good video of the one landing. But, after the landing, the security suddenly quickly moved the bales of hay and the gates, and my grandson and I, who were ensconsed in our little niche, got trampled over by hundreds up people rushing the gate.

Needless to say, we saw absolutely zero of the race. We couldn't see the jumbotron, and we absolutely could not see any of the cars coming down the course. In the end, it was a complete and utter waste of time. And I really wanted my grandson to see what a true soapbox derby was like.

Oh well. Thumbs down to you, Red Bull. You should have planned better, and had the foresight to know that when you moved those gates, with hundreds of people leaning on them, that there would have been a rush of people that was dangerous to all around.