How to Run a Pinewood Derby Without Timers
The pinewood derby has been an integral part of Cub Scouting since 1955. After the first pinewood derby was held in Manhattan Beach, California, in May 1953, the concept spread like wildfire and was added to the official Cub Scouting program after less than two years. Though many packs use specially-designed timers to determine the winners of their heats and derbies, these timers are unnecessary, expensive and cumbersome.
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Instructions
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1
Prior to race day, select a panel of unbiased judges. Do not choose the parents, relatives or helpers of any of the participating Scouts. Do choose an odd number of judges, to prevent ties. To drum up excitement and make the race seem more like a "real" auto race, try to find a "celebrity" judge, such as a local news anchor or even a professional or amateur race car driver.
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2
On race day, assign each approved car a number. Divide racers into groups that correspond to the number of lanes on your track.
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3
Set up a clear finish line, with a vertical indicator on each side of the track. Position the panel of judges near the finish line, close enough that they can all see it clearly.
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4
Race the first group of cars. Have the panel of judges determine the winner, if it isn't clear to everyone. Rotate the cars to different lanes, and race them again. Repeat until one car wins two of these heats. Put that car aside, and repeat with the next group.
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5
Once each group of cars has a winner, divide these cars into groups, if necessary. Repeat Step 4. Continue eliminating cars until you have a winner.
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Tips & Warnings
You may wish to keep records of the winners of each heat. This can help you award second and third place prizes, as well as prizes for the fastest Tiger, Wolf, Bear and Webelos.
It might be easier to judge winners if your track flattens out at the end.
