Scouts compete for fun, ribbons, trophies

March 30, 2008 09:36 pm

— By Debbie Robinson
news@joplinglobe.com
Cub Scouts cheered Saturday as they watched their “Grand Prix” race cars speed down the track during the annual Pinewood Derby inside Northpark Mall.
Cub Scout District Director Brian M. Karch said about 150 boys between 7 and 10 years old from 33 different Scout packs were competing.
“The Pinewood Derby has been a staple in the Cub Scout program for 60 to 70 years,” he said.
Scouts, with their families, purchase a block of pine wood and transform it into a small wooden race car for competition, Karch said.
Saturday’s contestants represented the top two finishers in each age group from Scout programs in Jasper, Newton, McDonald, Lawrence and Barry counties.
Scouts included Tigers, Wolves, Bears and Webelos.
Each car is made to specifications, including a maximum weight of 5 ounces, Karch said.
Four gravity-powered cars compete at a time on 36-foot tracks in four different heats. Top winners receive trophies.
Brett Buehler, 7, of Joplin Pack 47, was competing for the first time.
Brett said he distinguished his car by painting flames on the sides. His favorite part of the event was being with friends, he said.
The Scouts registered for the event at a table called “gasoline alley” and were given ribbons to wear.
Zane Sutton, 7, of Pack 333 in Joplin, also was competing in his first event.
He said he and his father spent about two weeks building his car and added dragon flames as the final touch.
As his car sped to a victory in a heat race, Zane said the addition of magnets gave him an edge. Magnets can be added if the total weight of the car does not exceed specifications.
“It’s fun,” Zane said about the event.
And for next year?
Zane said he is thinking about a firetruck for the competition.
Karch said the event provides the opportunity for parents to spend time with their sons in a meaningful and fun event.
“It’s a fun event, and it builds spirit,” he said.
A corporate derby was held Friday night, with Indian Creek Survey of Joplin taking top honors, Karch said.
Proceeds from the corporate derby go to the Nih-Ka-Ga-Hah District, Ozark Trails Council, Boy Scouts of America.

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