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Cardboard boat races make splash at Legion Park

By Heather Graves
Correspondent

DE PERE – There were only two rules for De Pere’s Cardboard Box Boat Races at Legion Park.

Rule one: Build a boat using only cardboard and duct tape. Rule two: Have fun.

Check and check.

It was a nautical event like no other. More than a dozen aspiring sailors, including a couple of lifeguards, came out Thursday, Aug. 8, for a night of family fun, creativity and teamwork.

The boat races were part of the pool’s family swim monthly activities.

“During the pool season, each month we look to create and host events on family swim nights that give the opportunity to bring our community together,” said John McDonald, recreation supervisor for the City of De Pere. “It is a chance for those who attend family swims to meet other families within the community and create long-lasting relationships.”

McDonald said the event also provided community members the chance to interact with pool staff.

“Our pool staff are an integral part of our pool operations, programs and events,” McDonald said.

Teams had the opportunity to participate in one of two competitions – the fastest to get across the pool or the longest floater.

Some boats stayed afloat, while others rapidly took on water.

Three teams took part in the longest floater competition, but it was the Cummings Clan – led by 5-year-old Chloe – who took home the title with its speedboat-inspired design.

Though neither team participating in the fastest across the pool competition made it very far before sinking – Team Sparkle Crew beat out Team Lifeguards for the win.

“Overall, it was a fun, relaxed and community-based event,” McDonald said. “The race gave families and friends together a chance to bond, create a project and see the end result in the race,” McDonald said.

Each winning team received its own trophy, and all competitors received a prize for participating.

McDonald said pool staff look forward to hosting the event next year.

“We want family nights to be something patrons and community members want to come to and be a part of,” McDonald said. “We enjoyed ending the season with a great event.”

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