Scouts of America Pinewood Derby winners race to the finish line

By Tara Vocino

The winners shared about their cars in Saturday’s Saugus Scouts of America Pack 62 Pinewood Derby at Cliftondale Congregational church.

First place winner Benjamin Hickman, 10, who is home schooled, said he made his Kit Kat car flat since it could be faster. “I trusted God for it,” Benjamin said. “I’m really happy and excited that I won.”

His mother, Jaclyn, said he put in a lot of effort by making his car a different shape. “Last year was more of a race car,” Hickman said. “I was praying the whole time.”

Second place winner Anthony Dinarello said it was a close finish at the end. “I was so happy for him to place second, when he placed eighth last year,” his father David said. “It was a great improvement.”

Scout Michael Atkinson placed third.

Former Scout Matthew Bell, 13, won the open race with his McDonald’s car. “It’s my first time winning,” Matthew said. “I’m happy.

His father, Mark, said he is proud of him, adding that he is a hard worker. His mother, Andrea, said it’s his favorite car that he made.

Scout Ben Dineen made his car in honor of his favorite Boston Bruins goalie, Jeremy Swayman. “He wished you luck,” his father Greg Dineen said. “I am going to tag him on Twitter.”