By Pat Morgan
On Sunday, November 23, the track will be set, the scales balanced, and the unmistakable scent of pine and fresh paint will once again fill the air. The second edition of Behind The Pine (Wood Derby) is returning to Madigan’s, 36 Washington St., bringing with it the timeless magic and legacy of the pinewood derby — a tradition that blends family bonding, community spirit, and friendly competition like no other.
A Time-Honored Tradition
So, what exactly is a pinewood derby? First introduced in 1953, pinewood derbies have been a beloved fixture in communities and scouting organizations for decades. Participants design and build their own miniature race cars from a simple pine block kit, then race them down a track in thrilling bracket-style heats. The November 23rd event will follow this proud tradition, with racers using standard kits (available online or at Madigan’s) and following established rules for car dimensions, height, and weight.
Racing for a Cause
weight of 5 ounces, so plan wisely! The crew will have ‘pits’ open day of,
to add or subtract weight, as well as graphite powder and more for maximum
wheel speed. Standard kits can be found online for $10 or less or they can be
purchased at Madigan’s.
This year’s event continues to strengthen community ties by working closely with The Bob McCarthy Foundation and other local organizations to kick off the holiday season of giving. A portion of the proceeds will be directed toward The Ellicottville Playground Project, which aims to bring modern, versatile play equipment to the community.
Following the derby, the Foundation will turn its attention to another cherished local tradition — The Annual Irish Christmas, scheduled for December 5, 2025, at Ellicottville Brewing Company.
Event Details
Registration: $20 per car (cash only)
Time: Begins at 12pm, upstairs at Madigan’s (36 Washington Street)
Racing Starts: Around 1pm
Each car will be weighed and measured upon entry to ensure it meets specifications. Races will be divided into Kid, Adult, Bar/Restaurant, and Shop divisions — offering plenty of opportunities for friendly rivalries and local bragging rights.
Prizes & Community Fun
Trophies will be awarded to winners in each division, and Brooks LeFeber Auctions is generously donating some eye-catching prizes that will keep the champions talking long after the final race. In addition, there will be 50/50 fundraising tickets, as well as auction items on hand to bid on from local businesses.
In the weeks leading up to the event, keep an eye out for Community Creation Nights, where supplies and seasoned derby veterans will be on hand to help participants carve, sculpt, and decorate their cars.
Rules
Cars can be a maximum width of 2.75”, a maximum length of 7”, and a maximum weight of 5 ounces, so plan wisely! The crew will have ‘pits’ open day of, to add or subtract weight, as well as graphite powder and more for maximum wheel speed.
Standard kits can be found online for $10 or less or they can be purchased at Madigan’s.