Troop #821 2nd Annual GGH 500 (Pinewood Derby)  by Don Vick, Scoutmaster

We held our 2^nd annual GGH 500 race on March 31^st.  It was bigger and more successful than the first.  All the boys started making their cars on January 7^th. by designing them and cutting them out of bocks of wood.  We had several volunteers? help them cut them out and get the axles and wheels ready.  The boys really enjoyed the time with our volunteers.  For the next several weeks they sanded, primed, and painted them.  Some were of simple design and some were very elaborate.  We had a speed boat, a sail boat, a bus, a dog, two fish, and several pick-up trucks.  All our boys took pride in their unique designs and paint schemes  -  they all had to be just right.  

            We had a major race sponsor this year - the Ware Family, AND 34 individual cars sponsored.   We really want to thank each and every one for their contribution.  It makes the event so much more exciting and also helps out the Recreation Program in so many more ways.  As the big day drew closer the boys who had sponsors make their posters thanking them to display in the race areas.  Daytona has nothing on us!!

            On race day all the boys and about 40 volunteers, parents, and guests came together to race and enjoy the competition.  Volunteers and parents voted on the best design and paint job by house.  Outback Steakhouse of Anderson provided an unforgetable lunch - and it was enjoyed by everyone. 

Each house had a runoff to decide 1^st. and 2^nd. place or 2^nd.and 3^rd. place.  This year we held a special race for all the cars that were painted with a their favorite college thanks to Todd Ware. 

             The overall race champion was Michael H. from Bridges Moderate.  His car was so fast that it was challenged three times to check its weight.  The other house winner were:  Horizon Moderate ? Josh; Horizon ?A? ? Michael C.; Horizon ?B? ? Nathan; Bridges High ? Chris T.

            I want to thank all the volunteers who came out to lend their support to this event.  Without you we could not put on this type event for the boys.  Not only does it build that improtant childhood memory, it also shows them that they can take practically nothing and finish it into something that is worth more than the actual finished product.   Thank you for helping us make such a big difference!