Let’s Go Racing!
Pinewood Derbies can be a
fun and exciting event for Cub Scouts and adults alike. They can also be a hassle. Someone has to rent or borrow a track, which
may or may not fit together well. Elimination
brackets have to be thought out and usually require several heat races. There always seems to be a few really close
races, where none of the “independent” judges (parents) want to make the
decision. Then there are the awards and
trophies to be awarded. And don’t
forget about refreshments.
Troop 530 can
facilitate your group’s whole derby experience!
The Derby Experience includes:
Tech
Inspection –
A Drivers Only room is designated for participant
registration. During registration, the
car is inspected, weighed, and assigned a unique number. The car is confiscated and taken to a
restricted access area. No work on a
car is allowed from this point on. (By holding the cars, there is also less
chance for damage to occur while the participants are waiting for their race.)
Race –
The
gym is decorated with racing banners and displays. The floor is partitioned to control access to the track,
electronic equipment, and cars. Bleacher
style seating is set up along the track giving everyone a great view of the
race. Results are projected on a large
screen. Door prizes are given
throughout the races.
Post-Race –
When
the derby is over, the cars are moved to an area designated for category
judging. Time is given to the Pack to
vote for their favorite car in several categories (i.e., Best Paint Job, Most
Realistic, Most Patriotic, etc.). It is
during this time that the derby results will be certified and preparations will
be made for the awards program.
Awards –
1st
– 3rd Trophies and medals are standard although arrangements can
made for any special awards to be given, such as traveling trophies or unique
awards.
4. Atmosphere
To create racing excitement, the facility is decorated with banners, flags, and displays. Automotive related slideshows, videos, and displays are a part of the experience. See a real American V-8 engine! Test your knowledge with the quiz and scavenger hunt! A refreshment stand offers hotdogs, pizza, chips, candy bars, sodas, etc.
Typically,
we ask you to cover our costs associated with medals, trophies, etc. Beyond that, we ask for a donation to the
Troop based on the financial abilities of the Pack.
Q. What if we want to have a Dad’s (or Parent’s) race?
A. Grudge matches or Parent’s races can be very competitive and exciting, but must be pre-arranged. The same entry fees apply.
Q. Can you run our derby at our facility on the date we choose?
A. We try to limit the races to our facility on pre-determined dates due to the amount of work we expend to provide a quality derby experience. If you are only interested in having us set up the track and run the heat races, feel free to contact us for further consideration.
Q. What are your rules?
A. You may get a copy of the rules Pinewood Derby.
Contact Information:
Kevin
Shaw
Charter
Representative
West
Towne Christian Church