Scouts off to the races at Pinewood Derby

Boys and girls, start your engines!

That was the rallying call during Johnston Cub Scout Pack 20’s recent Pinewood Derby, held at St. Robert Bellarmine Parish. Though the cars weren’t motorized, the excitement of the race built up over months as the Scouts carefully sculpted, sanded, painted and crafted their cars to participate.

More than 30 Scouts took part in the gravity-powered derby, which featured nearly 20 races along a 30-foot long track to determine a winner. The Cubs and their families cheered on the various racers until the fastest car was declared a winner. The top five finishers will now move on to participate at the Regional Race, which will be held at St. Rocco School on March 16 from 9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.

The scouts in this year’s winner’s circle, along with their rank, were Aiden Wentworth, Bear, first place; Ty Bailey, Webelos, second place; Elijah Bailey, Wolf, third place; Jaden Mollock, Webelos, fourth place; and Ali LaFazia, Tiger, fifth place.

Awards were also given for the Scouts’ creativity in constructing their cars. Derryck Roberts won most original design; Ryder Dieringer won car most likely build by a Cub; Alexis Forsberg won for the car with the most Cub Scout pride; Chris Spagnole won for most humerous car; and Tzivya Reyes won for best paint job. (Sun Rise photos)