It’s hard to beat traditions such as the annual Kootaga District Pinewood Derby, which brings Scouting families together in a competitive tradition that has been sustained since the 1950s. Late last month, at West Virginia University at Parkersburg, this year’s event featured more than 50 Scouts and family members.

“Pinewood Derby racing started in 1955. That’s been a key part of Scouting for a long time,” said John Shepard, Kootaga District race chairman. “Cub Scouts can race at the pack level in their individual groups, and then this is an opportunity for them to all come together and race against each other in our whole district area.”

The Kootaga District includes Belpre, Little Hocking and Coolville; in addition to Wood, Jackson, Wirt, Roane, Ritchie and Calhoun counties in West Virginia.

In fact, participants of all ages can race one another at levels ranging all the way up to “Outlaw,” for adults and leaders. It’s hard not to wonder which age group has the most fun.

“One of the best parts of the Pinewood Derby is the parents working with the Cub Scout,” Shepard said. “They get to work side by side, show them some of the skills of sanding and shaping the cars, painting the cars, testing the cars. That interaction is priceless.”

Indeed, it is. The Mid-Ohio Valley is fortunate to be able to host such an important tradition year after year.