Pack 367 holds annual Pinewood Derby

Cub Scouts from Pack 367 gathered on Jan. 26 at the Holy Name of Church to race their homemade cars in a series of competitive matches for the pack’s annual Pinewood Derby. 

Around Thanksgiving time, each pack member, ages 5 to 10, received their own pinewood derby kit comprised of a block of wood, four wheels and four axles. Using the items in the kit, the boys and girls were required to take the kits home and work with their parents or guardians to create a miniature car. The children had until Jan. 24 to finish making their cars with the requirement that each could not weigh more than five ounces. 

On competition day, the Cub Scouts along with their family members and friends gathered to watch the children compete, as they raced their cars on the 32-foot-long track. 

“This event is a great opportunity to see families in action and it gives participants the ability to see the positivity in forming memories and spending time with family,” Pack 367 Community Chairman Carlos Caban said. “This fun activity gives the kids lessons, while allowing them to plan and be creative. It’s great to see them put work in and cheer not only for themselves but for others, which builds sportsmanship.” 

Children who won top three in their age group for the derby are allowed to compete in the Iroquois District Pinewood Derby race. George Schuchman won the adult and alumni races.

“Our pack is really representative of the diversity in Valley Stream because it is made up of girls and boys of different races and ages,” Pack Master Patrick Burke said. “ … This was a great day for the cub scouts because they got to show their competitive spirits and become more of a community.”