The Pinewood Derby
Called one of the celebrated rites of spring by Reader’s Digest, the Pinewood Derby has been an annual tradition for the Boy Scouts of America since 1953.
With just a block of pine and four plastic wheels, scouts are encouraged to let their imaginations run wild. Carving, cutting and shaping the plain wooden block, each scout’s creation is a unique reflection of their creativity.
Of course, these cars aren’t just for show. By building their cars with care and precision, each scout improves his chance of rolling faster that the opposition. Of course, the idea is to have fun!
If you are interested in trying your hand at building one – even if you aren’t a scout – many sites offer the official kit for you to purchase and try your hand at building a racer of your own.
It’s that time of year again for sure. I work at a woodworking store and we’re going through a bunch of “Pinewood Derby Speed Secrets” and designs and patterns books as well as the kits to make the cars. Not too long ago I was looking through a box of old childhood stuff and came across two of my old pinewood racers. My son, five, spotted them and has been playing with them and insisting I bring him a kit home so we can make his own in my shop. Scouts is still a few years away and he’s already got Pinewood Derby Fever.
Boy, the derby has evolved since I was involved with it. Back then all you got was a block of wood, the axles and wheels, oh yeah, they cut the axle mounts for you. You supplied everything else, from weights on up. Now you can get everything for the car. And I saw some of the tracks out there now. NASCAR isn’t as technical as they are…LOL The age of TECHNOLIGY….
Hi tom,
Pinewood derby is alot of fun. I just helped my nephew make his car, hopefully it’s a winner!
I just found your blog and like it. I’m going to follow!
Hey, man, if you helped him build it, it’s a winner already!