Creativity required for Cardboard Boat Races

Creativity, brawn and a sense of fun are just a few of the requirements to enter the first annual Cardboard Boat Races to be held from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 19, at Mission Valley Aquatics in Polson.

Two-person boat crews must register and pay the $40 entry fee by 7 p.m. April 15 at the MVA front desk.

This silly, competitive fundraising event for the non-profit organization is open to families, businesses and all so-called master boatbuilders. Boats must be designed and crafted using only clean cardboard and all the colors of the rainbow of duct tape needed to hold together boat and oars.

Prior to launch, the boats will be on view, and an award will be given for the best theme. The judges will take into consideration the use of theme by the boat crew and their support crew, as well as the boat itself.

Depending on the number of entries, there may be several heats with the boats starting at the shallow end of the 25-yard pool, covering the length of the pool and back, with a prize awarded to the winners with the best time.

The third, and possibly most anticipated contest will be the boat and crew that performs the most spectacular sinking. This winner will receive the highly coveted Titanic Award.

Boat safety is part of the event, so participants must wear life vests and lifeguards will be stationed poolside.

This event is open to the public to enjoy at no cost. Call Mission Valley Aquatics at 406-883-4567 for more information. 

The pool is located at 309 Ridgewater Drive in Polson. Be sure to check out other fun events on the horizon or take a dip in the pool Mondays through Saturdays during normal hours of operation.