For the first time in the Poplar Bluff area, the Boy Scouts of America's Sioux District will host the Corporate Pinewood Derby at 6 p.m. Thursday to benefit the Friends of Scouting campaign.
The Pinewood Derby is as much a scouting tradition as campfires, leadership badges and Scouting for Food. Fathers and sons bond while building their cars and on race day, dads go head to head to make sure their son walks away with a first place prize.
It is this scenario that led BSA District Executive Mike Dineen to create an event specifically geared toward adults.
"I've had several folks come to me and say the father-son bonding is great while building the cars, but during the race it usually turns into dad versus dad," he said. "And it's true. I see it all the time."
The race is open to all businesses, civic clubs and organizations looking to compete. Dineen was sure to note the Corporate Pinewood Derby does not replace the kiddos annual event and said their race recently took place.
"Anyone who is interested in signing up still has time," Dineen said. "I have additional kits and it only takes about two to four hours to build a car."
Thursday's derby will be held at New Covenant Fellowship Church on Kanell Boulevard. An entry fee of $225 will be charged until the day of the event, when it will change to $250.
"Many local businesses donate to scouting each year and this is just a more fun way for them to contribute," Dineen said.
First through fourth place trophies will be given for race finishes and show cars. Show car awards will be based strictly on appearance.
Dineen said during check-in, exhibition races will take place and he invites the community to come out and watch. As of Monday, 20 local businesses had placed their pride on the line for a chance to bring home the gold.
To sign up, contact Zack Stricker at 573-776-4865 or via email at zstricker@firstmissouristatebank.com