Gearing up for the annual Pinewood Derby

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Old race cars are being rolled out, axles are being re-installed, new cars are being sanded and painted, and the track is being checked for bumps and divots. All this activity is in anticipation of the annual Sonny Dewees Pinewood Derby hosted by the Fayette County Museum, 517 Columbus Ave. in Washington C.H., on Sunday, Aug. 14.

The derby has been renamed to honor the many years Dewees devoted to helping Fayette County Scouts prepare for this family-oriented, fun event.

According to Glenn Rankin, who along with his daughter, Tracy Coe, make up the official oversight committee, “Anyone can participate in the derby. You don’t have to be a scout. Any boy or girl who would like to compete may do so. Adults are also encouraged to participate in the derby.”

Weigh-ins begin at 1 p.m. at the Museum on Aug. 14. Your car must be created from an official Cub Scout Pinewood Derby Kit and can weigh no more than five ounces. The scale is official and certifies the weight of each car. Once the car has been weighed it cannot be touched again by the owner until their race is called. You do not need to enter a new car. Bring one of your favorite old cars or you may rent a car for a $5 entry fee. The entry fee goes to help support Fayette Scouting and its activities.

When you purchase the $5 kit, the rules and instructions are included along with axles, wheels, numbers and a few hints to help with speed. Kits may be purchased from Glenn and Tracy by calling 740-505-9335 or by e-mailing [email protected].

There will be two classes for the 2016 Memorial Pinewood Derby: up to 11 years of age, and, 12 years and up. Once winners have been named for each class, the overall winner will be decided by a final heat. Following all the heats and the presentation of the winners, there will be the annual grudge match between noted radio and TV personality Harry Wright and Museum board member Bev Mullen.

Come to the derby for the excitement of the races; come to support Fayette County scouting; come to support the Museum; come to support the youth. Whatever reason brings you to this community event, it will be a great day!

Pictured is the race car Bev Mullen carved for the Pinewood Derby honoring Sonny Dewees.
http://www.recordherald.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/27/2016/08/web1_BevPinewoodDerby.jpgPictured is the race car Bev Mullen carved for the Pinewood Derby honoring Sonny Dewees.

By Bev Mullen

For the Record-Herald

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