Submitted Photo Hunter Vincent enjoys a break from the competition to put together a Lego derby car at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square. Earlier this spring, Hunter qualified for the national championship when he took first place in the regional competition in Olean.

CHERRY CREEK — Most people’s first trip to the Big Apple isn’t to compete in a world championship, but for 9-year-old Hunter Vincent, it certainly was.

On June 30, Hunter and his parents, James and Jill Vincent of Cherry Creek, traveled to New York City where Hunter competed in the 2018 World Championship Pinewood Derby at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square.

Hunter finished in the top 50 percent: 88 out of 178 overall in the Pro Stock race. He ranked 20 out of the 38 Webelos who raced.

Earlier this spring, Hunter qualified for the national championship when he took first place in the regional competition in Olean.

He was one of over 300 Cub Scouts from all over the country who took part in the world championship. Not only did he rank well at the world championship, but he also made a new friend.

Hunter is a member of Cub Scout Pack 219 and represented the Allegheny Highlands Council at the world championship. Next year will be his last year participating in the Pinewood Derby, as the competition is only open to Cub Scouts, which Hunter will age out of when he becomes a Boy Scout after fifth grade.

Hunter and his family would like to thank the family, friends and community members who donated money for his trip to New York City, as well as the Fredonia Walmart and the Clarion Hotel for allowing him to fundraise there.

The Vincents also thank Mancuso Service Station and Barbara Ann Beauty Salon for donating funds, as well as the OBSERVER for promoting Hunter’s fundraising efforts.