Derby classic

Cub Scout Pack 86 held their 2023 Pinewood Derby races Saturday, Feb. 11 at the scouts' building on the county fairgrounds. Eighteen cars raced in the scout category, and eight in the open category, which is a “just for fun” competition for adults who want to participate with their scouts.

In the scout category, awards were given for first, second, and third place as well as “Crowd Favorite,” a title selected by spectator vote. “Best in Show” and “Best Design” were selected by guest judges Julie Anderson, committee chair for the local BSA Scouts at the troop level, and Tristan Jensen from the Waseca County Pioneer. Liam Cory placed first in the races, Jacob Erickson placed second, and Mitchell Petsinger placed third. Crowd Favorite was awarded to Charlotte Griffith. Best in Show, which is awarded for craftsmanship and technique in constructing the car, went to Jacob Erickson. Best Design, awarded for a well-thought-out and -executed original design, went to Noah Love, whose car was a skateboard. Winners received certificates and trophies.

Following the races, the top two scout class and open class cars raced against each other, with Cory and Erickson maintaining their first- and second-place positions against the adults. Cory's car traveled an average of 195.48 miles per hour, and Erickson's was just behind, traveling at an average of 194.5 miles per hour.

The afternoon’s opening ceremony was led by Wyatt Partain, who serves as Den Chief – a leadership role filled by a troop-level scout, Griffith, Love, and Daniel Switzer. Griffith, Love, and Switzer are currently in their last step before “crossing over” and becoming troop-level scouts. These four led the scouts and spectators in the pledge of allegiance and BSA Scout oaths. Once the racing began, they also helped adult coordinators by getting the cars ready so the races could run smoothly. Larry Sipe, former cubmaster who will officially retire from the role at the end of March when his den crosses over to the troop level, addressed the crowd to thank them all for coming to support the scouts and enjoy the races. According to Sipe, the event has seen 400% growth in the past three years. Becky Sandquist, the district executive who coordinates between council and local events for Waseca's BSA Scouts, was also in attendance. Sandquist spoke at intermission to scouts and parents about upcoming events, including the spring recruitment party to be held February 19.

The races lasted about two hours with intermission, and were widely enjoyed by spectators. This was proven when racing resumed at the end of intermission, and Sipe asked the crowd “Who's having fun?” answered by raucous cheers all around.