Before Race Day — What Every Scout Family Needs to Know
Everything you need to prepare, build, check, and finalize your Scout's Pinewood Derby car before Inspection and Weigh-In.
Inspection & Weigh-In Nights
January 20–22
Your Scout's car must be fully built and ready for inspection by these dates. After check-in, the Scout will no longer be in possession of their car until after the Race.
Inspection Checklist:
- Weight check
- Size confirmation
- Wheel/axle inspection
- Final approval, with assigned number applied to the bottom of the car
Cars with non-compliance to the Rules and Regulations will be given an opportunity to improve before Race Day. No race-day inspections and submissions allowed.
"Scout Cut Days" at La Grange & Arlington Heights Scout Shops
La Grange: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Dec 13, 2025 & January 10, 2026
Arlington Heights: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Dec 20, 2025 & January 3 & 17, 2026
Walk-in for 15–30 minutes to get expert help cutting and shaping your car.
Scout Interview Prep
Every Scout will be interviewed by our Cubmaster during the race. Scouts should prepare:
- Their car name (Scouts can use any number they like on the car, as the Pack will assign an identifier on the bottom of the car at inspection.)
- Something special about their build
- A fun fact about themselves:
- Favorite food
- Dream superpower
- Favorite hobby
This gives each Scout their moment in the spotlight!