Pinewood Derby Fun
Cub Scout Pack 360 brought high-speed excitement to Franklin Elementary School during its annual Pinewood Derby, where 30 cars raced down the track in a night filled with cheers and anticipation. The competition was fierce, culminating in a photo finish that saw the top three racers separated by just 0.009 seconds.
By Paul Dorsey
The overall winners, who earned spots in the upcoming Pioneer District Pinewood Derby in March, were:
- 1st Place: Marco Molinari — 3.2146 seconds
- 2nd Place: Gabriel Regan — 3.2202 seconds
- 3rd Place: Theodore Barclay — 3.2236 seconds
Marco Molinari, this year’s champion, reflected on his victory:
“The Pinewood Derby was awesome. I was so, so surprised and excited when I won. I didn’t know the changes I made from last year’s car were going to make a big difference.”
Grade-level champions included:
1st Grade: Enzo Molinari
2nd Grade: Marcel Kruse
3rd Grade: Amit Molavski
4th Grade: Thomas DiGeronimo
5th Grade: Aksel Kruse
Special category winners were:
Best Workmanship: Max Griffith
Best Safety Vehicle: Parker Dorsey
Most Humorous: Ian Sklar
Most Aerodynamic: Marco Molinari
Judge’s Favorite: Zoe Rogers
Cubmaster’s Choice: Zach Rogers
The race wasn’t just about speed—it was about learning and improving. Organizers encouraged scouts to study the winning designs and think about what made them successful. Notably, the car judged “Most Aerodynamic” also posted the fastest time, underscoring how design choices can make a big difference.
The Pinewood Derby has been a cherished tradition in Cub Scouting since 1953, blending engineering skills with friendly competition. Pack 360 continues to uphold that legacy, making the race a highlight of its annual calendar.
For a look back at last year’s event, visit: https://www.tapinto.net/towns/summit/articles/cub-scout-pack-360-hosts-exciting-pinewood-derby-at-franklin-elementary-school
Looking Ahead
Pack 360 has an exciting calendar ahead, including:
- Army Scout Day at West Point
- Cabin camping trips to Fairview Lake and Frost Valley
- The Spring Camporee at Winnebago Scout Reservation
- Rain Gutter Regatta
- Community service projects
- Summer camp opportunities—and much more!
For more information about Franklin Cub Scouts Pack 360, please contact Pack360Summit@gmail.com.
The top finishers—Marco Molinari, Gabriel Regan, and Theodore Barclay—will now prepare to represent Pack 360 in the Pioneer District Pinewood Derby in March, where they’ll compete against other top racers from the region. Further details on the district event will be announced soon.
Congratulations to all participants for their outstanding work and enthusiasm, and good luck to the racers advancing to the district competition!