Community Comes Together To Keep Beloved Scouting Tradition Going Strong

EAST HAMPTON, NY — For parents and children involved in Scouting, the Pinewood Derby is the stuff memories are made of.

And now, the East Hampton community has come together to help a local Cub Scout pack purchase a new Pinewood Derby track.

A GoFundMe page, "Pinewood Derby Track for Pack 426" has raised $1,900 so far.

"Cub Scout Pack 426 in East Hampton, New York is in need of a new Pinewood Derby track. Our annual Pinewood Derby is a favorite event for many of the scouts and recently we have been without a track. For the last three years we have been able to borrow a track from a neighboring pack but they are not able to loan it to us any more. Their track is also showing signs of wear," the page, created by Chris Buckhout, said.

"Thankfully our fellow scouts in Montauk were able to help us and invited us to their derby, which was much appreciated, but it would be nice to do it ourselves. It would also allow us to repay the favor should any neighboring packs find themselves in the same predicament as we are in," the page added.

The previous track was made of wood, but not as readily available or durable as a new, aluminum model, he said; they are prone to warping and splitting and they can get easily damaged when put into or removed from storage.

The cost of a 42 foot, 4-lane aluminum track is $1,109, the timer is $635, and the shipping is $150, for a total of $1,894.

The track won't be needed until the next Pinewood Derby in early 2018.

"It's a great event that gives kids and their parents a chance to work together on a fun project, and the Scouts wind up being so proud of their cars. A new track will ensure that the tradition continues for many more years. The scouts and families of Pack 426 sincerely thank you for helping us reach our goal," the page said.

Photo courtesy of GoFundMe.