Pinewood Derby

The Pinewood Derby was invented by Don Murphy, who put on the first race in Manhattan Beach, California, in 1953.

Traditionally associated with Cub Scouts, it’s a design, make, and race experience for children and their parents. Each child receives a kit containing a block of pine, four wheels, four nails, and the rules, several weeks before the race.

In 2011 I decided to bring this experience to Bristol. I needed a six lane 32 foot track, regulation sized blocks of pine and identical sets of wheels and nails, race software to organise the heats, and a group of instantly competitive Dads. The last item was the easiest to source.

We held a race for Bristol South District Cubs in February 2012.

If you are interested in putting on a Pinewood Derby style event for your pack, club, pub, or company, please use the contact page to find out more.