Pine Wood Derby

Last night was the Pine Wood Derby, the last one for Big Boy #2 (Yay!  We have been doing these races for six years and are ready for a break!  One year off until the Caboose brings his own car to race.)  

The kids participated in four different heats, all against the same car. Here he is racing our backyard neighbor - who ultimately came in third.

We were watching the times on the track, and knew it would be a close race.  BB#2 was averaging 2.26 or so for his time, but there was another car that seemed to be getting about the same times. 

When they finally announced the winner, we learned that first and second place were only .003 seconds apart.  Three one-thousandths of a second! So close!!! Big Boy #2 ended up taking second place.  He was perfectly happy with how he did and was thrilled to add this trophy to his collection.

A woman in our troop came over asking for our secret to a fast car. My answer? This guy:

Diamond and I can't take any credit for the success the boys have had over the years in the Pine Wood Derby. Our effort consists of dropping the boys at my dad's house. My dad is an engineer with tons of a bit of a competitive spirit. It's a fabulous combination and we are just so thankful for his willingness to share both his power tools and his expertise.  Plus?  The boys get some one on one time with grandpa.  A victory no matter where you place.