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Scouts have annual derby
POLAND
Checkered flags and cheers of excitement filled the Poland United Methodist Church on Saturday night as local Cub Scouts raced in the annual Pinewood Derby.
All five Cub Scout groups in Poland Troop 2, in the Whispering Pines District and Greater Western Reserve Council, gathered for their annual Pinewood Derby, where Scouts raced handmade wooden cars on a downhill track.
Event chairman Aaron Shogren said about 45 Scouts, ranging in age from 6 to 11, participated in the derby. Each Scout was provided a kit with the materials to make their derby car, including a block of wood, wheels and nails, Shogren said.
Scouts can use only those material for the cars, which must weigh less than 5 ounces, and have one month to complete the project, he added.
“It’s meant as a parent-child event. It’s about bonding with your kids and teaching sportsmanship,” Shogren said, motioning to the parents and Scouts cheering on the sidelines.
Ben Adams, 11, said painting his car was the most difficult part of creating it, but said the task was worth it.
“The Pinewood Derbies are my favorite part of Scouts,” said Ben, whose father, Ken Adams, serves as a Cub master.
Eight-year-old Will Bacho’s derby racer was voted the favorite of the night by the Cub Scouts.
“It was mostly hard putting the body together,” said Will, who received a plaque for the honor.
Stephen Yerian, 7, said making the car was the best part of the experience and he was inspired by his favorite professional football team.
“I painted it Browns colors: orange and brown and white,” he said.
Shogren encouraged families to consider Scouting. Materials and uniforms can be provided in cases of financial need and several workshops using shared tools were held for the making the derby cars, he said.
Shogren’s son, Jacob Shogren, 8, said the derbies have taught him that winning isn’t the most important thing.
“It’s about having fun,” he said.
To find a local scouting group, go online to Boy Scouts of America at Scouting.org.