SOUTHFIELD — Fifth Third Bank will be the title sponsor for Michigan’s first adult pinewood derby competition to be held at the site of the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix on May 28th. The Boy Scouts of America Michigan Crossroads Council is embracing the excitement of world-class auto racing at they bring this time-honored scout tradition to Detroit’s premiere racing venue. The Fifth Third Corporate Pinewood Grand Prix will be the first official event to kick off Grand Prix Week.
Teams will take an actual pinewood derby kit still used today by the Boy Scouts and build their racecars. The strict rules that all pinewood derby races abide by will be applied to this event as well. Car specifications for weight, length, width, and building materials will follow the Boy Scout tradition. These race vehicles will compete in racing heats on pit lane at the raceway at Belle Isle Park circuit to see if their team has what it takes to win. Awards will be given to the fastest three teams as well as the top car designs. All participants will be treated to a post-race reception at the Grand Prix Club Chalet located next to the Scott Fountain.
Whether the focus is on speed or on style, the Fifth Third Corporate Pinewood Grand Prix gives team members a chance to be a kid again and be a part of the Grand Prix Week celebration.
Detroit and the surrounding region are full of creative and technical thinkers from automotive companies, design firms, and parts suppliers as well as strong engineering colleges. The competitive spirit and innovative ideas from these men and women will be combined not only with the racing tradition rooted in the Motor City, but also with the classic 60 year-old racing tradition of the Boy Scouts.
“We are very excited to host the very first Fifth Third Corporate Pinewood Grand Prix on Belle Isle,” said Charles Burns, the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix general manager. “This event is a great way to wave the green flag on race week activities and we look forward to working with Fifth Third Bank and the Boy Scouts of America Michigan Crossroads Council to create a unique and memorable experience.”
A portion of the entry fees will go towards funding valuable Scouting programs throughout the metro Detroit area.
