Please complete the online registration form for each Scout or sibling that will be participating in the Pinewood Derby Race. Pre-registration ensures that brackets can be created prior to the event to ensure we spend our valuable time having fun together!
Sign up to help ensure that one of our largest events runs smoothly and on time!
2:00 - 3:30 | Volunteer Setup: Track, Timer, Computer
3:45 - 4:30 | Car Inspection: Weigh-in, Measurement, and Test Run
We know that some will be coming from BEAVO / DEVO, but would greatly appreciate those who are able to come promptly to ensure we can begin racing on time.
4:45 - 6:00 | Racing (each Scouts car will run 4x)
6:00 | Pinewood Derby Awards for “Scouts favorite”, “Most patriotic” and “Scout Spirit”
6:00 - 6:30 | Finals
6:30 Racing Awards followed by clean up and track take down
The Pinewood Derby is a fun Cub Scout activity where Scouts use kits to construct small wooden cars, raced together as a pack. These gravity-powered cars accelerate down a four lane track. Each car will participate in a minimum of four races, covering each lane. Top-performing cars may advance to a finals round if time allows.
This is a chance for your scout to build something themselves, and to enjoy the spirit of friendly competition with their peers. Although age appropriate parental guidance is permitted, Scouts are expected to actively participate in the construction of their cars. The 'Official Pinewood Derby Rules' aim to keep the process simple and enjoyable for your child, offering insight into what to expect when it's time to race their car. Let's remind ourselves of the Cub Scout Motto, "Do Your Best." In the spirit of good sportsmanship, let's respect each other and cherish the friendly competition ahead.
The race is open to all registered Cub Scouts in Pack 229 and their siblings.
Each Scout or sibling may enter only one car, and active participation in building the car is expected, including designing, sanding, gluing, painting, and decorating.
Cars must be constructed during the current program year; those from previous Pinewood Derbys are not eligible.
Before competing, all cars must pass a technical inspection to meet prescribed specifications outlined in the Construction Rules section. Any issues found during inspection must be corrected before the race.
Upon passing inspection, cars will be registered under the Scout or sibling name and may not be touched again for the remainder of the Derby unless authorized by a judge.
The race will use an official Pinewood Derby Track with four lanes and a digital timer.
Adult Volunteers will place and start the cars on the track.
Each car will run once per lane, and rankings will be based on combined run times with a deduction for the slowest race time.
If a car experiences damage or issues during a race, the results will stand unless judges find a compelling reason to rerun the race.
Unsportsmanlike conduct by any participant or spectator may result in expulsion from both the competition and the race area.
The cars must be newly constructed for the current Cub Scouting year. While parental supervision is allowed, Scouts are encouraged to be substantially involved in building their cars.
Cars must be made from the official BSA Pinewood Derby. All parts provided in the kit, including the body, four axles, and four wheels must be included. No substitutions are allowed.
Additional parts, decals, paint, and glue are permitted. However, only cars with dried paint, decorations, and secure glue (adhesives) will be allowed to compete.
Weight shall not exceed 5 ounces
Size shall not exceed 2.75 inches wide, 7 inches long, 3 inches high
Wheel bearings, washers, and bushings are prohibited
No lubricating oil may be used. Axels may be lubricated with powdered graphite or silicone only.
The car shall be free-wheeling, not ride on any kind of spring, or have any sort of starting device
No loose materials of any kind are allowed in the car.
Awards will be presented as follows:
Den: 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place for each rank & open class (siblings)
Pack 229: 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place
Design Category: Most Patriotic, Most Scout Spirit, Scout's Favorite.
Please remember that the parents running this event are volunteers who generously contribute their time to make it enjoyable for everyone. As we compete and have fun, let's appreciate their dedication in creating this wonderful experience for us. We're all part of the Scouting family, so let's make it a great event together!
Here are some additional key principles to remember:
Respect for Others: Everyone has different skills and experiences. Respect your fellow Scouts and parents, regardless of their abilities.
Follow the Rules: Rules ensure fairness and a level playing field. Always adhere to them.
Winning and Losing: In every competition, there are winners and losers. Whether you win or lose, practice good sportsmanship. Avoid bragging if you win and bitterness if you lose. Say, "I did my best," and be happy for others' successes.
Appreciation: Be able to appreciate and congratulate others for their achievements and efforts.
Honesty: Honesty is paramount. Always be truthful in your actions and interactions.
Remember, we are here to have fun, learn, and build lasting memories together. We wish all participants the best of luck in the Pinewood Derby!
Pinewood Derby Home at Scout Shop
Full Version on Mark Rober’s YouTube Channel
Turbo Derby Ebook (Free)