Bumps, Bruises & Brilliant Vehicles At The 2014 Open Source Soap Box Derby

Neighbors big and small took to 17th Street in DIY motorless cars on Saturday at one of our favorite annual events — the Open Source Soap Box Derby.

Though there had been threats of rain, it was a gorgeous morning as kids raced between obstacles starting at the gallery and heading down the hill between 5th and 6th Avenues in cars they made out of recycled materials during a week-long workshop.

Friends, family, and neighbors cheered them on — and occasionally gave a little push — during an event where style is just as important as speed.

Helmets were popular — and for good reason, as there were a couple of wipeouts, though nothing the kids couldn’t recover from quickly and happily.

Vehicle styles ranged dramatically, and included 2-, 3-, and 4-wheel cars, and even one bobsled-style racer.

And a couple of two-seaters.

It’s definitely one of the coolest places to hang out with some neighbors for a last blast of summer, so keep an eye out for it next year. And for now, check out pictures from Open Source over at their website, and also see a nice recap in the Times. Congrats to all the racers!