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The checkered flag is ready. The cars are waiting to roll. The laser timer is set to project heat times to the thousandth of a second. The concession stand's doing a brisk business. And the cars are five ounces maximum weight. Welcome to the Pinewood Derby, where the smallest race cars in the circuit compete with the same level of tension as their big league Nascar counterparts.

This year's area Cub Scouts Pinewood Derby is open to the public and will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m., at the Forest Lake High School cafeteria, Saturday, April 17. Come see all your favorite pint-size racing stars as they vie for trophies.

The event features Cub Scouts racing in five grades from 16 area packs, and is one of the funnest family events of its kind around.

"It's a terrific time for a race, and a great way to start off the summer scouting season," said Derby Chair Shawn Otto. "Boys come from Scandia, Taylors Falls, and Rush City to compete."

The event also will feature a competition for the coolest car and the craziest car, which will be judged by Forest Lake School District Superintendent Lynn Steenblock.

To race in the Pinewood Derby, cars must meet strict guidelines. They cannot weight more than five ounces, and they must be hand made from a block of wood that is no longer than seven inches. This year's race promises to be the most competitive yet, with cars racing on a precision-milled aluminum track equipped with high tech laser timers. The checkered flag drops––and we have a winner!

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