AO is empowering young people in Crewe to design, build and race their own soapbox kart as part of Krazy Races on 24 May 2026, in collaboration with The Dome Youth Zone, the newest youth zone in the OnSide network.
As a Founder Patron of The Dome, AO invited members of the charity’s Young People’s Development Group (YPDG) to create a soapbox kart inspired by the AO brand, giving them hands-on experience in engineering, design and teamwork ahead of the high‑profile soapbox derby event.
The group visited AO’s logistics headquarters in Crewe, where they presented their kart concept to Tony Chrystal, Director of Operations, alongside AO engineers and mechanics. AO colleagues are now supporting the young people to refine the technical build, with the group returning on site to help construct the kart and apply their custom paintwork in the lead‑up to race day.
At the event itself, the kart will be supported by a joint AO and The Dome 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 the event’s official track and mascot sponsor for the second year running, underlining its continued commitment to the local area and to creating opportunities for young people.
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, added: “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!”
Lynne Wood, Director of Service Delivery at AO Logistics, said: “As Founder Patrons of The Dome, we’re really looking forward to seeing it make a real difference to the lives of so many young people in Crewe.
“These young people have done an absolutely brilliant job designing the soapbox car and it’s been a pleasure to help bring their vision to life. I can’t wait to see it race our own AO kart around the Krazy Races track on Sunday 24th May.”
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 it opens, The Dome Youth Zone will offer state‑of‑the‑art facilities for young people aged eight to 19 (or up to 25 for those with additional needs), including a climbing wall, music and recording studio, performing arts space, sports hall, fitness suite, boxing gym and 3G football pitch. Hot meals will be available for just £1, helping to create a safe, inclusive and affordable space for local young people.
The Dome is being delivered in partnership with OnSide and Cheshire East Council, supported by local businesses and philanthropists aligned with its long‑term vision. The Founder Patron campaign, supported by AO, is designed to ensure the charity’s long‑term sustainability and lasting impact for the Crewe community.