Young people in the driving seat for Krazy Races Soapbox Derby

Crewe’s young people have been put in the driving seat to create their very own soapbox kart, thanks to a collaboration between electricals retailer AO and The Dome Youth Zone.

AO – a Founder Patron of The Dome – invited the charity’s Young People’s Development Group to design a kart inspired by The Dome’s brand for Krazy Races on May 24.

The young people then visited AO’s logistics headquarters in Crewe to present their idea to the company’s Director of Operations, Tony Chrystal, as well as AO mechanics and engineers, who are now helping refine the technical elements and bring the kart to life.

The group then returned to AO to get hands-on with the build and apply their custom paintwork ahead of race day.

At the event, the kart will be supported by a joint The Dome/AO pit crew, led by AO driver Nick Cooper.

Krazy Races is the UK’s leading, award-winning soapbox derby, bringing together teams from businesses, schools and families to design, build and race handmade soapboxes.

AO is also the event’s track and mascot sponsor for the second year running. Chloe, who sits on the Young People’s Development Group, said: “We’re proud to be participating in the race in partnership with AO, a company that shares our passion of teamwork, and doing things a little differently.

“Together, we will be putting our creativity to the test as we design and build a krazy cart that we hope will stand out on race day.”

The Dome’s CEO, Stuart Manifould, said: “It’s fantastic to see our Founder Patron AO engaging with young people before our Youth Zone’s doors have even opened.

“Youth work is all about opportunity – and what a brilliant opportunity for our YPDG to learn about engineering, design and mechanics in such a hands-on way.

“We can’t wait to finish our kart and take part in the Krazy Race later this year!”

Danny Scoffin, from Krazy Races, added: “We’re incredibly proud to see young people from The Dome Youth Zone getting fully involved in Krazy Races, this is exactly what the event is all about. It’s not just about race day, it’s about the creativity, teamwork and hands-on experience that goes into building something from scratch.

“Seeing AO support and mentor the group in bringing their ideas to life is fantastic, and we can’t wait to see their kart take on the course in Crewe this May.”

When open, The Dome Youth Zone will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including a climbing wall, music room with built in recording studio, performing arts space, arts and crafts, sports amenities including a 3G football pitch, boxing gym, sports hall and fitness suite, ensuring a diverse array of activities for young people aged eight to 19 (or up to 25 for those with additional needs).

It will also provide hot meals for just £1, fostering a safe, inclusive, and affordable environment.

The Dome Youth Zone is being delivered in partnership with OnSide and Cheshire East Council, and is supported by local businesses and philanthropists who share the Youth Zone’s vision of bringing first-class youth provision to Crewe and Cheshire East.

The Founder Patron campaign aims to achieve long-term sustainability, to ensure The Dome Youth Zone will be an asset to the community, transforming young people’s lives for generations to come.

As the building progresses, The Dome Youth Zone continues to seek support for its annual running costs and build momentum towards its opening.

To find out more about being part of The Dome, contact kate.butler@thedomeyouthzone.org