Pinewood Derby

Pinewood Derby is a longstanding tradition within Scouts and Pack 409. The first Pinewood Derby race was held May 15, 1953, and due to its popularity packs across the country made the event a part of their annual calendar.

Scouts build their own race cars from kits containing a block of pine wood, plastic wheels, and metal axles. Each Scout gets one kit to complete their Pinewood Derby car. They design their cars by cutting the wood, adding paint and decorations, and nailing on the wheels. The cars race in heats, and awards are given for a variety of categories, such as: best craftsmanship, best scout spirit, coolest car, wackiest car and fastest car.

The event is traditionally held in January.

Pack 409 Details

IMPOUND: TBA (December-January)

DERBY RACE: TBA (location will be sent out via Scoutbook).

TROPHIES:

• 1st Place Car

• 2nd Place Car

• 3rd Place Car

• Best Craftsmanship

• Best Scout Spirit

• Coolest Car

• Wackiest Car

CAR SPECIFICATIONS:

• Car Specifications: Width: - 2-3/4"; Length - 7"; Weight - Not over 5 Ounces; Width between wheels - 1-3/4"; Bottom clearance between car and track - 3/8"

• The car must have been made during the current year (year in which derby is being held) - Cannot use previous years cars - Pinewood Derby Car kits supplied by the pack

• The car must ride on all 4 wheels

• Wheel bearings, washers, and bushings are prohibited.

• The car shall not ride on springs.

• Only official Cub Scout Grand Prix Pinewood Derby wheels and axles are permitted.

• Only dry lubricant is permitted.

• Details, such as steering wheel and driver are permissible as long as these details do not exceed the maximum length, width and weight specifications.

• The car must be free-wheeling, with no starting devices.

• Each car must pass inspection by the official inspection committee before it may compete.

• If, at registration., a car does not pass inspection, the owner will be informed of the reason for failure, and will be given time within the official weigh-in time period to make the adjustment.

• After final approval, cars will not be re-inspected unless the car is damaged in handling or in a race

• Wheels: If there are any burrs or defects on the wheels they can be sanded off. But removing substantial material is prohibited and the lettering on the wheel must still be completely legible.

Purchase an additional car for $5 to enter the Sibling and Adult race too!