According to Cub Scouts in the know, the secret to winning a soapbox derby is simple.

“Lean forward,” said Oakley Campbell, a Wolf Scout. He used that advice on Saturday afternoon during the Marion Cub Scout Pack 32 derby held on Holmes Street.

Scouts raced down the street, which had been closed for the occasion. A line of hay bales past the finish line assured a safe stop.

Scouts, with help from their Dads, built and painted the wooden soapbox cars for the race, which also featured a number of fundraisers. Donations to New Bedford’s Grace Episcopal Church Food Pantry and Gifts to Give were accepted. A bake sale was also held. All proceeds went to one Scout’s mother, who is fighting breast cancer.

Boy Scouts from Marion’s Troop 32 attended too, and showed of “The Wedge.”

Named after its shape, the Boy Scout’s soapbox car suffered a crash a few years back.

“It was a disaster,” said Boy Scout Chris Horton. But to inspire the Cubs it was rebuilt. Now, the car is back, however, to navigate it the Scouts rely on walkie talkies to overcome the aerodynamic car's visibility issues.

After the race, the Scouts traveled to the Marion Police Department to pick up more food donations dropped off there.

For more information on joining the Scouts, contact Kristen Saint Don-Campbell at ksaintdon@gmail.com or 508-748-3129.