Rosen Aquatic and Fitness Center’s Cardboard Boat Race

Think your boat-building skills are strong enough to keep you afloat?

This year’s race proceeds will support drowning prevention & adaptive swim lesson programs for all levels of swimmers, health and wellness education programs, and facility improvements.

For additional questions, contact Darren Kidd, Coordinator; Dkidd@rosenaquatic.com

Download Flyer and Form

Cardboard Boat Race FlyerCardboard Boat Race Sponsor Form

Rules and Regulations

Permitted Supplies

  • Boats must be made entirely of corrugated cardboard
  • Duct tape
  • Stickers
  • Markers

General Rules

  • Boats must be made entirely of corrugated cardboard and propelled by human power using provided ping pong paddles.
  • Boats must be assembled at the Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center on the day of event.
  • Will begin with the captain’s meeting at 12 pm on July 19, 2025, followed by no more than 1 hour to build.
  • The boat must be designed to float and carry participants.
  • Crew compartments cannot be fully enclosed to ensure easy escape in case of sinking.
  • Decorations are encouraged but must not aid in flotation or propulsion.
  • All boats must be staffed with one to two team members IN the boat. No towing, holding or using floating devices to hold the boat up.
  • Boats will have to maneuver 25-yards (approx.) across the lap pool.
  • Competitors must remain in the boat to complete the event.
  • All teams must completely dispose of their boats after the completion of the event in the outside waste container.
  • Physical contact between boats is prohibited and can lead to disqualification. Throwing water is okay.
  • Boats must fit inside of the 9-foot-wide lanes. No restrictions on length or height.
  • The races may be held in heats.