Hand-crafted pinewood derby cars were showcased during Cub Scout Pack 651’s annual Pinewood Derby Race on Sunday, February 16th.
1st Place: Miles Bensinger
2nd Place: Paxton Williams
3rd Place: Nathaniel Reno
Each year, Cub Scouts are tasked with making a free-wheeling car out of wood as part of their Race Time adventure. The pinewood block kits—including a wood block, nails, and plastic wheels—are given to the Scouts in December. Over the next two months, the Scouts modify, personalize, and assemble the kits into working pinewood derby racers.
Scouts work together with an adult to build a Pinewood Derby car at home. This process teaches them how to follow instructions, use hand tools safely, and wear the proper PPE (personal protective equipment). If families do not have the necessary tools, they can request access to the workshop located at the Hawk Mountain Scout Reservation on Blue Mountain Road.
As part of the project, Scouts learn about the science behind making their vehicles faster, such as the effects of airflow and weight. Older Scouts also explore concepts like weight distribution, friction, lubrication, and the practical applications of center of gravity in relation to potential and kinetic energy.
Before the race, the Pinewood Derby cars are weighed and recorded. Two cars race side by side on a sloped, two-lane, 40-foot-long track. Each racer faces double elimination to ensure fairness. The winners from each heat are recorded in a bracket to determine 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places.
The adventure also emphasizes the rules of the race. Understanding and following these rules teaches Scouts about fairness and honesty. Before the race, Scouts discuss good sportsmanship, which helps them learn to respect others and handle both winning and losing gracefully.
Participating in the race is a big part of this adventure. It gives Scouts a chance to see their hard work in action while enjoying the excitement of the race with friends and family. This activity helps build teamwork and community spirit among the Scouts.
This year, the trophies will be donated by Zimmerman Machine Inc., located in Friedensburg, PA. On Monday, January 27th, Tim Zimmerman provided a tour and demonstration to teach the Scouts about the manufacturing process, from product design and CNC machining to final assembly.
If your child is interested in joining Cub Scouts, please visit BeAScout.org to find your closest pack. Boys and girls in kindergarten through 5th grade can join Cub Scouts at any time.
Story and Photos Submitted by Kevin Huneke Cubmaster - Pack 651
