Pine Wood Derby

Get Ready for the Pinewood Derby!

Sunday, April 13

Weigh-ins begin at 2 p.m. and end at 4:15 p.m.

Races begin at 4:30 p.m.

Vrrrrooooooom!


The annual Pinewood Derby will be held Sunday, April 13th beginning with weigh-ins at 2:00 p.m. Weigh-ins will close at 4:15 p.m., and races will begin immediately after the weigh-ins at 4:30. Scouts’ “siblings” will race first, followed by the Tigers, Wolves, Bears and Webelos.



The race is run in heats -- four cars compete in each heat, each in its own lane. A car will race once in each of the four lanes (4 races/car). Awards will be given for “Best in Show,” “Overall Pack 73 Winner,” and a race winner for each Den. Races have typically taken 2 ½ to 3 hours to complete.



Derby car kits were handed out at the Arrow of Light Ceremony on Monday night. If you didn’t get a car kit or you need another one, email Bill Kirkpatrick @ bill@bigblueboxes.com. Each kit includes a block of wood made of pine with two notches for wheels, four plastic wheels and four nails. The finished car must use all nine pieces, must not exceed five ounces and must not exceed the length of the stock cut of the car—5 inches. Note no flashing lights will be allowed during the race as it interferes with the timers.

Other than the previous basic design rules, the car can be carved and decorated as the designer chooses. Many scouts add weights to their designs to bring the car to the maximum allowable weight. For further inspiration or guidance check out some of these Web sites: http://www.pinewoodpro.com

http://www.abc-pinewood-derby.com


Hot dogs, chips, soda, water, and candy will be sold throughout the event.



FAQs:
Do I need to make a fancy or complicated car to race successfully in the Derby? No. The race has been won by every type of car from simple to exotic (think … a speeding hunk of swiss cheese!).



How much should I help my son with the creation of his car? Your son should do most of the work—coming up with a design idea, decorating, etc. Obviously, you will need to safely assist him with the use of any power tools that you/he may choose to use.

What is the most important tip for enjoying the Derby? Laugh a lot, cheer loudly and HAVE FUN!