Annual Cardboard Boat Challenge set for August 26

The Cardboard Boat Challenge is a Canyon Lake tradition. This event is entertaining for participants and spectators alike as boats made from cardboard and duct tape race on the lake for cash prizes.

Back in the 80s, the Cardboard Boat Challenge was referred to as the Milk Carton Boat Race. In past years, the race was sponsored by the POA and held at Sunset Beach on Fiesta Day. Two years ago, the POA canceled the race due to lack of volunteers. When the Woman’s Club got word of this, they offered to take it over and host the event during its annual Mermaid Festival.

This year’s Cardboard Boat Challenge will take place on Aug. 26 at 11:30 a.m. at Indian Beach. All ages are welcome to enter. The First Place winner (16 years of age and older) will be awarded $100. The First Place winner in the youth category (15 years of age and younger) will be awarded $75. There are also $50 cash prizes for Judge’s Choice and Best Dressed Vessel.

The application forms and rules are available at the POA office. The $10 entry fee will be waived for those who turn in their application by August 22. Participants under the age of 18 must have parental consent to participate.

Only duct tape and cardboard may be used to construct boats. Boats may only be propelled by utilizing arms, hands paddles or oars. Legs and feet must be contained inside the boat at all times. If you haven’t come up with any ideas for a boat design yet, or you’re unsure about how to construct your boat, there are some informative tutorials available on YouTube.

The Cardboard Boat Race is only the first in a lineup of activities planned for the Mermaid festival. Woman’s Club Mermaid Festival Chair Lyne Hall said the event will feature vendors, food, contests, a kids zone and more.