Friday, March 12, 2010

Pinewood Derby Time!


Get Ready for the Pinewood  Derby!
Sunday, March 14th

 Weigh-ins begin at 2 p.m. and end at 3:30 p.m.

Races begin at 4:00 p.m.

Where: CTK Gym

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 Vrrrrooooooom!

The annual Pinewood Derby will be held Sunday, March 14 beginning with weigh-ins at 2:00 p.m.  Weigh-ins will close at 3:30 p.m., and races will begin at 4:00.  Scouts’ “siblings” will race first, followed by the Tigers, Wolves, Bears, Webelos and than Webelos II’s (new this year!!!)   Also new this year is shiny aluminum track with computer timing.  We have moved up to big league now!!

The race is run in heats – 2 heats per den, 2 heats per sibling group.  Race order will be determined by computer system and track setup (sell that popcorn, we already bought the track).  A finals heat will take place with the top 8 fastest times across all of the dens.  (note that if you are 4th in your heat but in the top 8 overall you still race for gold in the finals) Awards will be given for “Best in Show,” “Overall Pack 73 Winner,” and a race winner for each Den.  Top 3 places in each categories will get trophies,  Races have typically taken 2 ½ to 3 hours to complete.  This year we have scheduled the race earlier in the year so winners can compete in districts if they choose to.

Derby car kits were handed out at the Blue and Gold Dinner.  If you didn’t get a car kit or you need another one, email rhelm@cbburnet.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 so bring some money!!!

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!