Boat races great success

Submitted by Bob McGreevy
Sunday, July 21st saw the 11th annual Cardboard Boat races take place at Hannam Park. Contestants signed up and received their building materials shortly after noon, and the contest was underway. When all of the registrations were in there were 18 teams vying for their place in the hallowed pantheon of cardboarding. There were six entries in each of the three classes: adult, child, and family.
It was evident from the outset that several contestants had the benefit of years of experience in this event, and knew how to avoid that sinking feeling. The race consisted of six timed heats with three vessels in each heat. As well, trophies were awarded for the best theme board, and the most spectacular sinking.
When the spray settled, the winner of the adult class was the Crozier Pie Rats, with Alyce Ewald as Captain and Kirby Ewald as First Mate, with a blistering time of 1 minute and six seconds.
In the Family Class, the 1 minute and 20 second best time went to the Rainy River Racers crewed by Carter and Danny St. Pierre.
The Child Class title was won by Tamara Trenchard and Lilly Blakney aboard the Scrounger Silly Scuba Divers with a time of 1 minute and 29 seconds.
The award for the most spectacular sinking went to Lara Wood and Ireland Blakney aboard Flower Power. The Best Theme Boat award went to the Morley Pirates, sailed by Mitch Haw and Alexis Sharp. A special award was presented to Lara and Ireland for their mastery of piratical techniques.
The organizing committee wishes to thank all participants and spectators. As well, the committee thanks the many volunteers who made the event a great success. See you next year.