Vicenza Cub Scout Pack 295 held its annual Pinewood Derby March 21 at the Caserma Del Din Sigholtz Center with some 50 cars taking part.
Cub Scout members from 1st-5th grade, from Tiger to Arrow of Light, received car kits at the December Pack Meeting.
"The Pinewood Derby car kits were provided by our council, which is the Transatlantic Council," said Cub Scout Pack 295 Chair Kowanda McBride. "They provided the kits because we registered more new Cub Scouts this year than last year," she said.
McBride explained that many participants started working with a parent to build their own car in February. "Some even started in March," she added.
The cars must meet two specific standards about weight and overall length and width.
After the cars are all checked in, the race officials make sure cars are centered and ready to go.
At that point, the boys and all the participants cheer, especially when cars get near the finish line.
"There are specific guidelines we follow. Cars can weigh no more than 5 ounces, be no longer than 7 inches and racers are not allowed to change the wheel base. If the guidelines are not followed the cars won't fit on the track," explained McBride.
The track, which is 42 feet long, was electronically timed by computer.
"Pack 295 utilizes a GrandPrix Race Manager software, which handles the Cub Scout Registration, Race Scheduling, Race Electronic Scoring, Running the Race, Awards and Standings and Reports," said James Pierce, Pack treasure. "The software is highly customizable and easy to use," he added.
After a lunch break, as a conclusion of the yearly event, each category winner received a trophy.
Prior to the race, the cars were on display and also competed for special categories showing off their unique designs.
"This was my fourth derby. I like the pinewood derby because it is fun, and I like that I won, too," said Iain McBride, a Webelos Cub Scout.
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