Roslyn Schmidt of St. Peter, left, behind the wheel of the “Pantheon 1” was the day’s champion. Photo by Jonah Stafford
Annual day of races and smiles
Fri, 09/01/2023 - 4:08pm
The Waseca Masons held their annual Soap Box Race last Saturday afternoon. During the event, the street next to Tuscan Lodge #77 in the 800 block of Third Avenue Northeast was closed to make room for needed equipment including a two-lane slope, the soap box cars themselves, hay bales, and a finish line. Eight cars, most of which are sponsored by local businesses, were available to be piloted by any child who volunteered to race.
"All it takes is a parent signature and you can get ready for some racecar action," announced spokesperson Brad Kubat.
Soap box cars are motorless miniature wooden cars that gain speed when raced on a downhill slope. The cars and ramp were built by volunteers, including Kevin Clemons and Mark Wolf.
Clemons, a member of the Masons for over fifteen years, described the organization as “a fraternal philanthropy group.” He added that the Soap Box Race is the Waseca Masons’ main annual fundraiser; all profits will be donated to charitable causes in the community. While preparing for the race is a lot of work, Clemons said it’s very rewarding. “The best part is the grins on these kids' faces,” he commented.
Car sponsors included Radio Mankato, Pantheon Computers, and Kibble Equipment. Other businesses sponsored hay bales, which served as safety buffers during the race.
After an hour-long, triple elimination racing tournament, Roslyn Schmidt of St. Peter, behind the wheel of the “Pantheon 1” was declared the champion and presented with a trophy. The car was constructed by Scott Coy, Schmidt’s grandfather. “I like that,” Schmidt said of her win. “I’m surprised I beat my cousin’s friend; she’s pretty fast,” she added. Schmidt's mother, Jen, added that she enjoyed the race as it was an activity that could “equalize boys and girls.” After the race, the pair said they were going to celebrate by visiting a local root beer stand.
Lunch and refreshments were sold at the Tuscan Lodge throughout the event. In addition, visitors had the chance to tour the inside of the lodge.
