Cub Scout Pack 533 holds annual Pinewood Derby
On an overcast and snowy March afternoon, 23 racers took center stage for the 2023 running of the pinewood derby.
Two divisions of racers would sign in to do battle on the 60 foot race track. Twelve scouts prepared amazing race machines which would run a total of 9 heats each to crown a winner on the day! There were 11 entries in the open division consisting of parents, siblings, and pack leaders. This year’s event was held at St. Paul’s church in Medford who is also the chartered organization for the unit which started in the late 1970’s. A brief meeting was held and awards were presented to the youth who continue to work hard within the Scouting program and keep advancing through the ranks, hoping to one day all become Eagle Scouts. The track was prepped and ready, scoring and timing was set and the day’s announcer, Conner Zirngible at the ready – it was race time.
A total of 36 heat races were run and when the dust settled, it was Elliott Fuchs who came out on top. His car, nicknamed “Snake” would run a consistent time and speed throughout the event. As the pinewood cars are a scaled version of a real car, scaled speeds are calculated as well. With an average race speed of nearly 125 miles per hour over the 9 events, Elliott and Snake would secure the championship. This was not without challenge! Tristin Nemitz with “Maybe” and Anthony Husser would put up a formidable challenge posting average speeds near the winner, but would be edged out during the event. Nemitz would claim the runner up spot on the day with Husser rounding out the top 3. Speeds were fantastic through the entire event with plenty of cheering and excitement in the grandstands!
On to the open event with its 11 competitors, most of whom have plenty of experience in pinewood car construction and racing would now take to the stage. Eleven cars would run 33 events, 9 runs each on the day. Tensions were high in the pits as some newcomers were on hand to challenge the hometown track's familiar names. Again, when the smoke cleared a familiar name would be in victory lane again. Conner Zirngible would lay claim to the checkered flag and the champion’s trophy. With an average speed above 128 miles per hour, you can see that the veteran car builders know a thing or two about speed. Jerry Cypher would come home in the runner up spot with Beau Fuchs rounding out the top 3.
Three other awards were presented on the day as well. Tristin Nemitz claimed the honors of Best Paint Job, Elliot Severson would be awarded the Fastest Looking, and Lillian Nemitz took home honors of Best Scout Theme.
Congratulations once again to all those who took part in the annual event! Upcoming activities for area scouts include the annual “Scouting For Food” campaign which benefits local food pantries, the end of year advancement picnic and the highlight of the year, a trip to Akela’s World scout camp just outside of Rhinelander, WI. For more information or questions on the scouting program or how to join the Cub Scouts, contact Carrie Zirngible at cczirn@gmail.com!
