The ABC’s of Pinewood Derby

Pack 102 Families,

Is this your first Pinewood Derby with Pack 102?  If so, keep reading. :)  I've put together a few tips I've learned throughout the years that may help you on race day.  I call them the ABC's of Pinewood Derby.

Attitude: This shouldn't be the first one but it starts with A. :)  This is by far the hardest.  It's easy to get upset if/when something happens.  Our track, computers, etc, are not perfect.  Please remember the volunteers helping are just that, volunteers.  We do our absolute best to make sure race day is fun and safe for our Scouts.

Balance: Come prepared to remove (or add) weight when you register your car.  We take every effort to use the most accurate scale possible but it's never 100% accurate.  Regardless of what your scale shows at home, the official Pack 102 scale has the last word. :) 

Clearance:  Avoid adding weight to the bottom of your car.  While every track is different, the track we use at Pack 102 has very little clearance.  Weights attached to the bottom of your car will likely rub and will need to be removed prior to the race.

Size: The width of your car (and your wheelbase) is important as well.  While it's fun to make cars "narrower", the car needs to be able to fit into the grooves on the track.

Can't wait to see ALL of you at the Pack 102 Pinewood Derby.

Best Wishes,

The Pinewood Derby Track Announcer (aka. Mr. Mike) :)