re: #633 jwb7605

In 1983 I built a timer system for our Cub Scout pack’s pinewood derby track.
It was based around the (my) Apple II computer, and had an accuracy of 0.01 seconds.

MANY years later, a Scoutmaster asked me to help with their track and timer system. He told me “some guy had built it about 15 years earlier, and it broke”. It turned out to be my system, and I gave him schematics and fixed it.

I should have taken out a patent.

I remember doing this when I was a kid. My father is was not too handy with tools so my Grandpa helped me. I finished third place in the race and won second in design. My Grandpa let me run the saw and guided me with the sanding and painting. For a long time, I considered that moment my greatest achievement ever. I think kissing a girl took over a few years later…..