WEEK 6 - **NEW** WoodWorking Camp (July 27 - July 31)

From a pile of lumber to the winner’s circle.

There is nothing quite like the thrill of driving something you built with your own two hands. At our Go-Kart Woodworking Camp, campers trade the screen for the workbench. This hands-on week teaches the fundamentals of carpentry, structural engineering, and mechanical physics as teams work together to design and build a functional, human-powered (or gravity-fed) go-kart.

The Builder’s Journey

We move from safety training to the final race, mastering real-world tools along the way:

• Shop Safety & Tool Training: Before the first cut, campers learn the "Rules of the Shop." We cover the proper use of hand saws, drills, sanders, and measuring tools to ensure every builder stays safe.

• Chassis Engineering: Learn why triangles are a builder’s best friend. Campers design and assemble the frame, ensuring it’s strong enough to hold a driver and stable enough for high-speed turns.

• Steering & Axle Mechanics: This is where the physics kicks in. Campers build custom steering columns and learn how to align axles so their kart drives straight and turns smooth.

• Custom Bodywork & Aesthetics: Once the "bones" are built, it’s time for personality. Campers sand, paint, and add custom features—like spoilers, seats, and decals—to make their kart stand out.

Skills for a Lifetime

Woodworking is the ultimate way to build "grit" and practical intelligence:

• Measurement & Geometry: Using "math in the real world" to ensure every cut is precise.

• Structural Logic: Understanding load-bearing points and how to reinforce a frame.

• Problem Solving: Learning how to fix a "mis-cut" or adjust a steering alignment that isn't quite right.

• Teamwork: Working in "Pit Crews" to assemble a vehicle that requires multiple hands and big ideas.

The Friday "Grand Prix"

The week ends with the ultimate adrenaline rush! We head to our custom track for the Go-Kart Derby.

1. The Inspection: Teams present their karts and explain their design choices.

2. The Time Trials: Karts are put to the test for speed, steering accuracy, and braking.

3. The Award Ceremony: We celebrate the Fastest Build, Most Creative Design, and Best Engineered Chassis.

FUN FRIDAY TRIP: (Optional)
We will ask campers where they want to go on Monday and will decide by wednesday. Options are endless with theme parks, Science centers, Zoos and more!