Submitted by Peter Ricci for Pack 194
Cub Pack 194 recently held its second annual “Raingutter Regatta.” Similar to our annual pinewood derby, but using miniature boat kits rather than cars, the event has boys and parents working together to complete the boat kit, which this year was a trimaran model.
The boats are raced along tracks, which were originally 10 foot sections of rain gutters, but in recent years have been replaced by air-inflated tracks. The approximate 7 inch long boats are painted or decorated by the boys and propelled down the track by the boys’ own lungs as they blow on the sails. Racing head to head the results are compiled using a tournament bracket.
The 2015 race had its exciting moments as boats tipped and bobbed down the track under the watchful eyes of adult leader race officials. Like all competitive events, there was the “… thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.” But this was overshadowed by the boys being led in starting countdowns by Bear Leader Bill Barney, and cheering on each competitor. Though being bested out in a race, Tiger scout Kye Slusher puffed on to cross the finish line in true competitor’s form. When asked if he enjoyed the race, Bear scout Ben Sedran stated simply, “It was awesome!” Wolf level scout Alex Brough, anxiously waiting his turn, grabbed his boat as his name was called and told his Dad, “I’m racing … let’s go!” Event coordinator Andreas Randhahn paced track to track as the boys set up for each heat and encouraged a sportsmanlike handshake at the end of each race.
Cub Scouts in Bedford serve boys in Grades 1 through 5. For more information on Cub Scouting contact Peter Ricci at [email protected].
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