REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. (Apr. 24, 2015) -- Creativity was on display when the U.S. Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center held its fourth annual Pine Car Derby in support of the Army Emergency Relief campaign.
The race, sponsored by the Engineering Directorate's Manufacturing Science and Technology Division, took place at the Prototype Integration Facility during national "Bring your sons and daughters to work day" April 23.
A $10 donation covered registration and the car kit, while employees and their children enjoyed a day filled with carnival food, spin art, and the competitive spirit of a classic American pastime.
"It gets better every year," said Thomas Hibbett, MST Obsolescence Branch engineer and derby timekeeper. "The event has evolved greatly from the first year, which then only included employees. Since we have begun scheduling the event during 'Bring Your Sons and Daughters to Work Day' it had grown immensely with the kids participating."
58 cars competed for trophies in "fastest race time," "best in show," and "most outrageous outlaw."
Those categories determined the direction each builder took. While every contestant started with the same kit, a pre-measured block of wood, axles and plastic wheels, the rules varied depending on which trophy the contestant was seeking.
Speed racing entries could not use starting devices or exceed five ounces, while the outlaw racers had fewer restrictions and were encouraged to unleash their creativity.
The inspection committee qualified all entries, judged the design of the cars, and then promptly kicked off the race at 10 a.m.
K.J. Kennedy designed a Michael Jordan-inspired pine car and took first place in the "fastest race time" category with a average time of 2.5425 seconds. The second place winner followed closely behind differing by thousandths of a second. "Adult: Best in Show" car went to Lisa Ryder and Will Hansburger won the title "Youth: Best in Show" car.
"The best part of the day was seeing my coworkers bring their families to work and enjoy a fun day outside with a little friendly competition. It's a nice change of pace from the every day routine. We got a chance to bond in a more relaxed setting," Hibbett said.
Russ Dillard, MST Manufacturing Technology Branch engineer and event coordinator, shared Hibbett's enthusiasm for the event.
"This is a great opportunity for AMRDEC technical folks to develop our future engineers and scientists by working on a fun project," stated Dillard. "It's a worthy cause that encourages team building and interaction among colleagues. We are thankful for all the volunteers who helped make it a successful event."
ED's Industrial Operations Division also provided ice cream sundaes with a variety of toppings shortly after the race. All proceeds contributed to the AER campaign.
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The Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center is part of the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command, which has the mission to develop technology and engineering solutions for America's Soldiers.
RDECOM is a major subordinate command of the U.S. Army Materiel Command. AMC is the Army's premier provider of materiel readiness -- technology, acquisition support, materiel development, logistics power projection, and sustainment -- to the total force, across the spectrum of joint military operations. If a Soldier shoots it, drives it, flies it, wears it, eats it or communicates with it, AMC provides it.
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