Cub Scout Pack 75 Pinewood Derby

It was an exciting day at the races as Cranford Cub Scout Pack 75 held their annual Pinewood Derby on Saturday, January 11 at the Cranford United Methodist Church.

The Scouts who, with the help of an adult, each had to craft their own race car from a basic kit consisting of a block of wood and four wheels. Each participant gets to apply their own creativity and workmanship into the design. Some of the more popular themes for cars included superheros, video game characters, sports teams, and even abstract modern art designs.

A total of sixty Scouts participated, ranging from kindergartners to fifth graders. The participants raced their cars against their fellow den members, and the top four finalists from each den returned to compete in the championship round.

The Derby has been run by Daniel Rogers and Paul Kimball for the past three years. Earlier in the day, Rogers was honored by the Munsee District of the Patriots’ Path Council, the governing body overseeing the local Cub Scout chapters, with their Munsee Knot award in recognition for his leadership on the Derby and other Scout activities.

“Running the Pinewood Derby is a labor of love.” said Rogers, who is also the Pack’s Assistant Cubmaster. “The kids enjoy watching the races and being with their friends, but it’s also about them learning to build with their hands and an opportunity for parents and their children to work together.”

Pack 75, hosted by the Cranford United Methodist Church, is open to kids in grades K-5. Cub Scouts is a great way for children to learn life skills, try new experiences, and to have fun with their friends. To join or for more information about Cub Scouts Pack 75, visit their website at www.CubPack75.com.