Teams

Philly Pride

Garage Headquarters: Philadelphia, PA

Driver: Tom Crescenzo

Mechanics: John Wiggins, Shane Wiggins, Steve Capizzi, Michael Boylan

Nuts and Bolts:

When it comes to the People’s Choice Award at September’s Red Bull Soapbox Race in Philadelphia, Team Philly Pride isn’t taking any chances. Their entry includes a reference to just about every popular landmark, sports team, and character associated with the City of Brotherly Love. Team driver Tom Crescenzo counts down the highlights: “The body of the car will incorporate the steps from the Philadelphia Museum of Art made famous in ‘Rocky,’ plus the Liberty Bell, the ‘LOVE’ sculpture, and a silhouette of the skyline,” he begins. “The hubcaps will be decorated with the team emblems of the Phillies, Eagles, Flyers, and Sixers, and our driver and co-pilot will be costumed like Rocky and one of the Mummers from Philly’s world-renowned New Year’s celebration.”

The teammates, who range in age from 14 to 40, love to build things and try insane stunts, so racing a homemade vehicle on The Wall is right up their alley. “Usually we’re sledding down these hills, and now we’ll be soapboxing,” says Michael, a student at Mercy Vocational High School. The team is devoting every weekend to building their racer at John’s house in Philly, primarily using PVC and wood. “Our inspiration for entering the contest was to bring family and friends closer together,” John comments, “and the name of our car says it all. If people love Philadelphia, they’re going to love us.”