Pinewood Derby

The annual Pinewood Derby race is one of the highlights of the scouting year. Scouts design and build their cars to compete with members of their dens and maybe advance to the Pack finals.

Pinewood Derby Rules

There are some rules that every scout must follow when building their car. Click here for the Pack’s Rule Book.

DO NOT cut the axles down as this will prevent the car from fitting on the track!

If you have any questions about the Pinewood Derby, please email you scout’s Den Leader and/or one of the Pack Leader.

Remember that powder graphite is the only lubricant that is allowed on the cars. Also please lube your car prior to coming to the church. DO NOT LUBE “Graphite” the car inside the Church facilities.

Volunteers Needed

We do need help with the following:

Track Setting Up (Night before the race; adults only)
Track Tear Down (Right after the race)
Weigh-in station
Pit Crew
Line Judge
And more…

Cut Out Your Car

For those that may need a little help rough cutting the car out, you can go to the Woodcraft store located at the corner of Bethel and Kenny Roads.

Map: 1077 Bethel Road, Columbus, OH 43220

They will cut out the car for free. Just draw out what you want on the block of wood and they will cut it out.

Open Class

Parents and siblings are welcome to make a car and race them down the track in the OPEN CLASS race. The cars must follow the same rules and need to be check-in. If you would like to participate in this OPEN CLASS and don’t have a car, one can be purchased for $5.

Brief History

The first pinewood derby was held on May 15, 1953, at the Scout House in Manhattan Beach, Calif., by Cub Scout Pack 280C (the present Pack 713). The concept was created by the Pack’s cubmaster, Don Murphy, and sponsored by the Management Club at North American Aviation. To read more: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinewood_derby