Cardboard, tape and a little creativity will take center stage this week as Leander Parks & Recreation hosts its annual Cardboard Boat Regatta at Robin Bledsoe Pool.
The event is scheduled for Friday, July 17, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the city pool, located at 601 S. Baghdad Road. Participants are challenged to design and build boats using only cardboard and tape before putting their creations to the test in a race across the water.
Organizers say the event is open to participants ages 5 and older, with competition divided into three age groups: Mini Mariners (ages 5-13), Teen Tides (ages 14-18) and Seasoned Seafarers (18 and older).
Registration costs $10 per boat, while spectators may attend free of charge. Season pass holders can participate at no cost but must preregister to have the fee waived.
The competition encourages participants to construct their vessels at home and bring them to the pool for an evening of racing, cheering and, in some cases, spectacular sinkings.
City officials noted that preregistration is required and that no onsite registration will be available. The event will proceed only if at least five boats are registered.
The Cardboard Boat Regatta has become a popular summer tradition in Leander, combining engineering, imagination and friendly competition in a family-oriented setting.
Additional registration information is available through Leander Parks & Recreation.
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