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The Fort Steuben Mall played host to the 2025 Ohio River Valley District Pinewood Derby Feb. 1. The long-standing tradition for Cub Scouts ranging in age from 5 to 11, was once again a success, according to derby chair Joe Kovaleski. Kovaleski has chaired the event with his wife, Suzan, for more than 34 years. More than 100 boys and girls competed for the top prize, as participants raced their homemade wooden cars down a metal track. Those who were deemed top finishers in the competition were awarded a trophy for their accomplishment. Top derby finishers included, at top left, from left, E.J. Toole, Pack 20, Richmond, fourth place; Hudson Russel, Pack 151, Weirton, fifth place; Mason Holmes, Pack 151, Weirton, second place; Mark Betlem, Pack 151, Weirton, first place; Colton Click, Pack 41, Toronto, third place; and Jace Cooper, Pack 415, Wintersville, sixth place. At top right, derby staff members selected the winner of having the Best Show Car at the event. Caiden Horvath of Pack 146 in Dillonvale was named this year's winner, with Kovaleski presenting him the trophy. Below, Family Race competitors meet on the evening prior to the derby, where a special race is held for adult volunteers, Cub Scout relatives and former Scouts. This year, 32 participants took place in the event, with the top finishers including, from left, Riley Heldreth, Troop 22, first place; Ed Schultz, Pack 151, second place; Matt Keller, Pack 20, third place; James Cooper, Pack 415, fourth place; Connor Cooper, Troop 3, fifth place; and Buck Heldreth, Pack 20, sixth place.
— Christopher Dacanay