Red Bull Soap Box Derby 1

[msquared48]

OK...Here's a wierd one...

I just saw an ad on TV for a Red Bull Soap box Derby event in Seattle.

Last week I was approached wia my network to structurally certify aither the starting ramp or a turn ramp for this event. I've asked all sorts of questions of the promoters in the last two hours - no answers yet. I have a lot of clarification of the problem to get at this point.

Anybody dealt with this event and the starting ramp or a turn ramp in a similar event?

This is no joke...

Mike McCann
McCann Engineering

 

[DaveVikingPE]

I don't have any experience with Red Bull or their contests, but that's a pretty cool gig you've got!

 

[MiketheEngineer]

Sometimes the liability out weighs the rewards.....

esp if you cannot get a good idea of loads or use.

We use to do party decks for Mardi Gras..... no more...not worth it.

 

[hippo11]

That is a cool gig.

This may be a stretch, but maybe you could get in touch with someone in a local skateboarding or bike-stunt organization and ask them who designs competition-type ramps and get in touch with them for advice.

 

[msquared48]

Miketheengineer et al:

The liability was my primary concern once I thought through the problem a bit, and it still is, let alone the time frame - two to three weeks at the most I believe. I think the city it trying to spread the wealth, so to speak. The promoter is still feeding me information, not the least of which, there are no drawings and no weight limits on the riders. There are specs for the vehicles. An extensive site visit would be mandatory if I took the gig.

Sounds like it's a wild and crazy affair where the city wants me to assume the liability for the structure for their craziness. I really don't know about this one. Why not just do the gig with a release of liability for all the participants, and the spectators?

I will keep you informed as to what transpires. Thanks.

Mike McCann
McCann Engineering

 

[unclesyd]

Here is the home of the original Soap Box Derby. Whether or not they will divulge any information is another question. I know that they have very strict rules for the cars and starting gates.

http://www.aasbd.com/index.htm

 

[MiketheEngineer]

IMHO - there is NO release of liability written strong enough so that you DON'T get sued. Sure - you might win in court - but the laywer's fees will kill you.

As a matter of fact - we often just pay out out lawsuits less than 50K becasue it is CHEAPER than the legal fess!! Go figure!!

 

[msquared48]

unclesyd:

From what I have seen, this is not your typical soap box derby race with kids. These are adults, if you can call them such, probably hyped up on Red Bull energy drink, barreling down a twisty course approaching breakneck speeds. There are much more lenient restrictions here. Kind of the Mardis Gras of the Soap Box Derby. High liab9lity undertaking. I am very seriously thinking of passing here.

The timetable is short, and to me, it appears that the certification requirement was an after thought. No need for me to stick my neck out there because someone else did not do their due dilligence.

Mike McCann
McCann Engineering

 

[unclesyd]

You are coming in loud and clear. Red Bull and Vodka messed up a few things around here.

 

[MarcbSE]

Mike:

FWIW it almost appears that you are trying to talk yourself into taking on the project, rather than not taking it. I think if I had as many doubts about a project as I think you have about this one, I would pass. Let somebody else take on the liability and headaches.

 

[msquared48]

I am looking as to if I should take the project, asking if there is anyone in the forum who has dealt with this particular organization or scenario in their own locations.

I had serious doubts before posting here. The reason I am continuing with this, is that another long time client referred this individual to me personally, with cudos. I don't want to lose my primary client because I refused to help one of his friends for no good reason. Kinda saving face, and kinda CYA if you know what I mean.

Mike McCann
McCann Engineering

 

[MarcbSE]

Been there and know the feeling.

We try like crazy to stay away from residential work for a myriad of reasons, but occationally an old client will refer a friend of theirs asking us to help with their house. UGH! Always a difficult situation to be in.

 

[msquared48]

Well, emailed the promoter 5 additional questions on Thursday and never received an answer.

On tonight's news (Saturday), I saw the event had taken place, and saw the inclined ramp in use. I guess they solved their problem.

It solved mine. Unbelieveable...

Mike McCann
McCann Engineering