No longer child’s play – VFW’s adult Pinewood Derby gives back to local veterans

A common activity of the Boy Scouts of America and other youth groups is building and racing pinewood cars. Many people wax nostalgic when “pinewood derby” is mentioned. So, now that you’re grown up, how can you still feel the thrill? You can, by registering, creating, and racing your own car in the 2016 Downtown VFW Derby for the Vets.

For several years the Fargo VFW Post 762 has hosted an event where adults get to race these pinewood cars for prizes and bragging rights and also to donate to the Fargo VA Hospital. As Derby for the Vets Director, Daniel Jacobson says, “It’s an opportunity to give back to local veterans and to have fun at the same time.”

The racing event is Saturday, February 20th at the Fargo VFW Club at 202 Broadway. Competitors arrive at noon to have their cars inspected, with a very moving opening ceremony at 1 pm, and racing begins at 1:30. Jacobson describes the day as action-filled, including several racing heats, silent and live auctions, good food, and a bar with excellent service and drinks.

Jacobson stresses that the money raised stays local: “It focuses on the local community” and “one hundred percent of the funds raised” go to the Fargo VA Hospital to purchase roller recliner chairs for patient rooms. Since 2013 the Derby for the Vets has raised over $15,000 for area veterans, more than doubling the goal and contribution each year. For 2016 the goal is $22,000.

For Jacobson, the opening ceremony is the most meaningful part for him because of the “emotional attachment” to our veterans. It includes a color guard, a talk by the Grand Marshal (yet to be named), and a flyover by the Blue Angels. He says it “sends you into the ‘let’s race’ mode!”

VIP tables are available for purchase; otherwise, it is first come, first served, and always a bustling, crowded event. For an advance price of $100 groups can secure a table, otherwise, “come early,” Jacobson advises.

Jacobson notes that although the racing occurs downstairs, “everywhere in the club you will be able to catch the racing excitement,” with audio and video production by H-B Sound and Lights and Studio 334. Jacobson’s event team includes Joel Hebert, Club Manager, and Stew Peterson, Silent Auction Manager, as well as many of the club officers.

Rosey’s Grilled Cheese Bistro will be providing the food for the event. There will be a charge for food, but it is a donation to the VA Hospital. Their grilled cheeses include everything from Mom’s (classic grilled cheese on white bread) to a “Snobby Frenchman” with triple cream brie, candied pecans, and Fuji apples.

Silent and live auction items include a signed NDSU Bison football, a $500 WE Fest package, small plane rides, and a painting done by local artist Kim Jore during the event. If you have a high-quality auction item, please bring it to the VFW club during business hours at least a week before the event.

The Derby for the Vets is only open to anyone 21 or over. Sorry, kids.

Mayors’ and brand challenges

New to 2016’s event are two “challenges.” First the Mayor’s Challenge has all four local mayors planning to participate with a car. Following that, those businesses, organizations, and individuals who signed up for the Brand Challenge will challenge each other. The Brand Challenge participants can also race in the main races. Brand Challenge registration is $50, while normal registration is $20.

How it works

Pinewood derby cars are gravity-powered vehicles, starting the race on a sloped track, initially held back by starting pins. When the pins are dropped, the cars roll down to the finish line.Racers must follow regulations, including the weight of the car, but creativity is important to win the most unique car award. The other prizes are based on cars winning heats and battling it out to find the fastest car.

According to the Maximum Velocity website, keys to racing success include an aerodynamic shape, maximizing momentum, wheel and axle preparation, lubrication, and alignment. Adding weight near the rear of the car is a common practice.

Even if you have a pinewood derby car race-ready, please stop in at the VFW for the racing rules. All participants must check in at noon on race day, February 20, to have their cars inspected and must have their registration fee paid.

Jacobson is stoked: “The racing action and all the other activities that day will fill the VFW with excitement. Silent and live auctions, artist Kim Jore and her unique live painting, along with delicious food by Rosey’s Grilled Cheese Bistro will create a fun and memorable race experience. See you there!”

Sponsorship opportunities are available and will get your company name on posters, other promotional materials, and frequent mentions in local media.

IF YOU GO:

Derby for the Vets Adult Pinewood Derby

February 20, 2016, 12 noon registration; 1 pm opening ceremony

Fargo VFW Club, 202 Broadway, Fargo

Free to attend; $20 to race; $50 to race in Brand Challenge

Derby for the Vets Director Daniel Jacobson: 701-799-8419