20 Jun 2016 Maumelle chamber plans annual cardboard boat races

Posted at 12:18 PMh in News by

At 5:30 p.m. Monday, July 4, the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce will present the Third Annual Cardboard Boat Race at Lake Willastein.

This event runs in conjunction with the City of Maumelle’s 4th Fest activities. Each year, the city hosts 1,000-plus visitors at these events, and this year is expected to be even bigger.

Boat check-in will begin at 2 p.m. and the race will begin immediately after the parade. “This is an exciting event for participants and entertaining for spectators,” said chamber executive director Alicia Gillen.

Armed with cardboard, duct tape and a few other odds and ends, participants use skill and ingenuity to transform these materials into a vessel for the water. Not only does their "boat" need to be quick, but it must be capable of carrying passengers as well. This is a great team-building project for businesses, families, schools, civic and church organizations.

This year’s theme is “American Heroes.”

“We encourage participants to decorate their boat and attire to add to the fun!”

Teams will consist of only two participants in each boat. Competition heats will be broken down into three divisions: Youth (both racers are 17 years old and younger), Family (one adult and one youth under 17) and Corporate (two adult racers).

Fastest of the Fleet awards will be given in each division. Additional awards include Sinking with Style, Team Spirit Award and Floating with Flare.

Early bird Registration is $30 per team through Friday, June 24. The cost will increase to $40 per two-person team after June 24. Each participant will need to complete a Registration Form and waiver to participate.

This event is proudly sponsored by State Farm Anthony Otwell Agency and State Farm Lee Tuxhorn Agency. It is presented by the Maumelle Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Maumelle Parks and Recreation Department.

To register or for more information, visit maumellechamber.com or call 501.851.9700.

“Make a SPLASH with your team this summer and join us for the 4th!”