This past weekend, after a couple-year hiatus, the Mount Sinai Yacht Club held its highly anticipated annual Cardboard Regatta race, an event that has become a cherished tradition in the local community. The race brought together children, parents, and community members for a day filled with creativity, competition, and camaraderie. Participants of all ages gathered to cheer on the young sailors as they tested their handmade cardboard boats in a fun and lighthearted race across the water.
The Cardboard Regatta is more than just a race, it’s an opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate the ingenuity of its youngest members, and enjoy a day of wholesome entertainment. Each year, the event challenges kids to design and build their own boats using only cardboard and other simple materials. The result is a vibrant display of creativity, with each boat reflecting the unique personality and imagination of its builders.
This year’s regatta did not disappoint, as the kids’ creativity truly shined. The boats ranged from sleek, streamlined designs to colorful, whimsical creations that delighted onlookers. The excitement was palpable as the young sailors, with their cardboard vessels in tow, approached the starting line, ready to put their designs to the test.
The race itself was filled with laughter and cheers as the boats made their way across the water. Some sailed smoothly, while others encountered a few more challenges along the way such as sinking. Regardless of the outcome, every participant was met with applause and encouragement from the supportive crowd.
While every child who participated in the regatta was a winner in their own right, a few stood out for their exceptional efforts. The winners of the race and most creative were Bradley and Skyelar Strong, who navigated their boat with skill and determination, crossing the finish line first to the delight of the crowd.
Joseph Alison took home the award for the Prettiest Boat Design, impressing everyone with a beautifully crafted vessel that was eye-catching. The boat was a standout among the competition.
In a lighthearted and humorous moment, the award for the Most Spectacular Sinking Nicholas Aliano. Despite his and his team’s best efforts, their boat met an untimely end in the water, much to the amusement of the spectators. Their good spirits and willingness to embrace the fun of the event made them crowd favorites.
The atmosphere at the Mount Sinai Yacht Club was one of pure joy, with kids, parents, and onlookers all sharing in the excitement of the day. The event not only provided a platform for the kids to showcase their creativity but also served as a reminder of the strong sense of community that exists in Mount Sinai.
For many, the Cardboard Regatta is an event they look forward to all year, and this year’s race only solidified its place as a beloved local tradition. As the day ended, smiles were abundant, and plans were already being made for next year’s regatta, promising even more fun and creativity in the years to come.
