Weather doesn't stop Derby Days

The second annual Derby Days at Cape First Church's parking lot on Silver Springs Road was still on Saturday despite the weather.

"It was comical," said children's pastor Jennifer Brothers. "A strong wind came along, the tent blew down and hard rain caused us to move the sound system indoors."

Lightning moved people to the sidelines and into the food tent until 11:45 a.m., when races regularly scheduled for 11 a.m. were officially announced. The events had races scheduled for pinewood derby cars, rain gutter regatta sailboats, Soap Box Derby cars, go-carts and rockets.

Derby Days raised $6,000 last year, Brothers said. The rain halved the expected turnout of 600 people and squashed the goal of raising between $8,000 and $9,000 this year. Proceeds are used for a summer camp scholarship fund.

Kaleb Woodridge, 9, of Cape Girardeau belongs to a children's ministry within Cape First Church called "Kids on the Rock."

"I like KOTR better than Cub Scouts because you learn about how Jesus saved us and have fun at the same time," he said.

Last year he won first place in the pinewood derby race. His secrets to winning were spinning the wheels a lot, adding weights and axle grease.

Planning began in March. Pinewood derby cars, rain gutter regatta ships and rockets were hand made during children's ministry meetings on Wednesday and Sunday.

Chance Ward of Cape Girardeau handed his rocket to his father while he raced in the Soap Box Derby. Painted orange, silver and black, the craft would fit onto a wire for racing later on. He said, "I think I'll win because I shaped mine better. I have cuts on my hands from making it."

Derby Day's purpose was to provide an exciting and fun family day while welcoming those who might ordinarily feel intimidated walking through church doors.

Brothers is satisfied with the move from the church's former location at 715 Mount Auburn Road, where holding outdoor activities wasn't possible.

"Our expansion to this location near the mall gives us more visible access to the community," she said.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133