All are winners at the annual YMCA Indian Guides/Princesses Pinewood Derby

On Sunday March 6th, the B.R. Ryall Indian Guides and Indian Princesses held their annual Pinewood Derby race at the YMCA. They call it the Indi-N-500. This event challenges fathers and children to build cars out of blocks of wood, decorate them and race them down a track. Cars have to meet specifications which include length, width, and weight. This year the cars could not exceed 5 oz.

Participants start designing and building cars shortly after the first of the year. A lot of care is put into the car as the difference between 1st ans 2nd place can be hundreds of a second.

There are separate races for the boys (Guides) and girls (Princesses). In addition to the trophys presented to the first through third place finishers, trophys are given out for the following design catagories:

Coolest Car- Best non-automotive design

Automotive - Best automotive design

Native American - Best design featuring a Native American theme

Nation - Best design which clearly shows the effort of the child.

Race day is an exciting time for the children (and dads) as they get to pit their car's design and speed against other children in the Nation.

The B.R. Ryall YMCA’s YGuides & YPrincess programs are dedicated to strengthening the bond between father and child.  Thes important programs foster companionship in an atmosphere that emphasizes fun, adventure and a shared sense of discovery of Native American culture. To learn more call Robbie Gonzalez the YMCA at (630) 858.0100, ext. 216