How to go
What: Crazy Cardboard Regatta
When: Noon Saturday, July 17
Where: Voice of America Park, 7850 VOA Park Drive, West Chester Twp.
Cost: Event is free, parking permit costs $5. Call (513) 867-5835 or e-mail stretchs@butler countyohio.org
WEST CHESTER TWP. — “Crazy” may be a good word to describe a regatta race — if those boats are made out of cardboard and competing in a 200-yard race.
The Crazy Cardboard Regatta will launch at noon on July 17 at Voice of America Park, 7850 VOA Park Drive. Twenty-five teams have signed up so far to build a boat out of only corrugated cardboard and compete.
The competition, though, isn’t just about crossing the finish line, especially since the boats are liable to sink. The regatta is also about team-building and imagination.
“The emphasis is on the spirit, the best sinking and the best dressed,” said Susan Stretch, Butler County MetroParks marketing director. “The emphasis is on fun.”
Along with awards for first, second and third place in each class/division, awards will also be given to teams for “Pride of Regatta,” “Team Spirit Award,” “Vogue Award,” “Best Dressed Team” and the “Titanic Award,” which is for the team with the most spectacular sinking. For the sinking award, the team has to salvage all its boat remains.
Rotary Club of West Chester/Liberty team member Anil Marfatia said his team had started planning their cardboard boat, but hadn’t started construction yet.
“I’m really nervous right now, believe me,” he said. “I don’t think it’s going to float.”
For Marfatia, the regatta isn’t about winning, but reaching out to the community.
While also competing with at least 25 other teams, the rotary club will also have a booth set up July 16 during a day of pre-festivities at VOA. The make-shift boats will be available for viewing starting at 5 p.m., and entertainment from the Jump ‘n Jive Band and the Stormy Weather Band will be showcased throughout the evening. Voting will also take place for the boat receiving the “People’s Choice Award.”
The event is free, but bringing a vehicle into the park will require a motorized vehicle permit, which is $5.
Class III is for spectators turned competitors. Secret kits will be available at the regatta to build a boat, but only a limited number are available.
Sign-ups for the Regatta will be available the day of the race.
For more information, call Stretch at (513) 867-5835 or e-mail stretchs@ butlercountyohio.org.
Contact this reporter at (513) 483-5237 or kcano@coxohio.com
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