One of the highlights of Cub Scouts is the Pinewood Derby.  Scouts are provided a pinewood car kit to build and decorate.  While some adult assistance is required, the boys are encouraged to prepare much of the car themselves.

Each year our pack holds a Pack Derby in February.  Scouts compete within their age level and the top three finishers in each group receive a trophy.  The top finishers then move on to compete in our Pack Grand Prix and the overall winner will receive the Pack Champion trophy.  There are also trophies awarded for the Best Car Design within each age group.

Our council also holds a Pinewood Derby race at the Village Square Mall.  For a nominal fee, scouts compete against other area scouts within their age level.  Each participant is awarded a Pinewood Derby patch.  Trophies are given to the top three finishers in each age group.  Parents and non-scout siblings can participate in the Open Division race.  Only the top finisher in the Open Division receives a trophy or plaque.

There are a lot of websites available with information and car designs.  Below are a few to get you started.

http://pinewoodderby.org
http://www.boyscouttrail.com/library/pinewood-derby.asp
http://boyslife.org/hobbies-projects/pinewood-derby

Derby Car Specifications:
Must be "Official Grand Prix Pinewood Derby" Kit.
Maximum Width with Wheels: 2 3/4"
Length: 7"
Weight: Must not exceed 5 oz.
Width between Wheels: 1 3/4"
Bottom Clearance between Car & Track: 3/8"

1. All rules printed in the Derby Kit insert must be followed, in addition to the following rules.
2. Wheels will remain flat in profile, no rounding off will be allowed. The axles must be straight in the groove, not tipped. The car must run on the flat part of the wheel. Please do not alter the wheels supplied in the kit, drilling out etc. Wheels can be painted. All 4 wheels must be flat on the track. (NO 3 wheelers allowed.)
3. The Pinewood Derby race is open to all Cub Scouts.
4. Maximum height of the car is 3" and it cannot extend past the start bar. The car cannot race if it exceeds this limit.
5. Graphite is allowed for axle lubrication. Teflon is allowed for lubrication. No lubrication is allowed inside the race event. Please lube outside of the building.
6. An electric scale will be used. This scale will be the official weigh-in.
7. After the official weigh-in, the car cannot be adjusted or lubricated.
8. If a car runs off the track or loses any parts more than two times per race, it will be disqualified.
9. Do not hang weights on the bottom of the car; they will drag on the track. All weights must allow clearance of 3/8" between the car and track.
10. Race official's decisions are final. Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated from Scouts or Spectators/Parents.
11. Weigh-in is 30 minutes before race times.
12. Be sure your Cub Scout knows what group they belong in. They will not be allowed to race in a different group if they come at the wrong time.
13. Colored official BSA wheels are accepted.
14. Cars removed from the officials table after check-in will be disqualified...NO EXCEPTIONS!