Cub Scouts Hold Rain Gutter Regatta

Sullivan’s Cub Scout Pack 444 held a Rain Gutter Regatta race, July 28 at Grace United Methodist Church.  

The Rain Gutter Regatta is a racing event for Cub Scouts that is the sailboat equivalent of the pinewood derby.  The sailboat kit consists of a long wood hull, a mast, a sail.  Within the basic design rules, Scouts are free to paint and decorate their sailboats as they choose.  Modifications for speed include the placement of the keel and rudder and the size, shape and location of the sail.  A catamaran is an exceptionally fast design.   

The boats are raced in a standard rain gutter that, placed on saw horses, and filled to the top with water. The boats are propelled by blowing on the sail through a drinking straw; the boat cannot be touched with hands or the straw. The first boat to reach the end of the gutter is the winner. The overall winner is determined by an elimination system.   

Everyone wins because of the partnership with a parent or guardian, Cub Scouts work together, strengthening bonds and building confidence – and their own custom race boats.   It’s a wonderful learning experience centered on teamwork, ingenuity and sportsmanship – all for the thrill of the race and a lifetime of great memories to share with fellow racers young and old.

To contact our Scout Pack, see our Facebook page “Cub Scout Pack 444 Sullivan Missouri”.