PDX Adult Soap Box Derby, ADX Portland, and The Arrow
In early August, we got a shout-out on Twitter from Matt Preston, asking if we’d be interested in helping with the finishing of his Soap Box Derby car. Matt is part the ADX Portland community, and we will talk more about the derby, but first we want to tell you about ADX. ADX brings together thinkers, makers, students and experts in a shared 14,000 square foot fabrication facility where dreams are made. Once you read about it, you will want to be part of it.
Now, back to the derby. Each year since 1997, Portland has been home to the PDX Adult Soap Box Derby. According to their website, “Now in its 18th year, the PDX Adult Soap Box Derby continues a beloved summertime tradition at Mt. Tabor Parkl—a community event that draws crowds of 7,000 – 10,000 people to watch a colorful and sidesplitting spectacle of 40+ coaster cars powered only by gravity, whimsy, and attitude."
Matt’s entry was framed but not finished.
Would we be willing to furnish some of our wool to cover it? Oh you bet.
Matt made a trip to our Woolen Mill Store in Milwaukie, Oregon. With the help of our manager, Mary, he picked his favorite. You might remember this Serape pattern from our second collaboration with Doc Martens.
It wasn’t quite “off to the races” yet. First, Matt went back to ADX for final construction.
We were delighted to see that Matt was inspired by “The Point," the Harry Nisson 70s classic.
Arrow was a great best friend. Here’s a little clip for those of you who weren’t around back then.
The derby was held on August 15th. We don’t have any images of Matt’s car in action. It was sidelined in a crash! Here’s what Matt had to say about it: The race was a great time and we got a lot of comments on our craft and on the wool covering. Unfortunately, our tire wrecked during the race and so the craft only got one good run in her, but we will be reusing the wool and structure for next year’s race and it will be even better!
So, let’s all think good thoughts for next year.