said Meyer. “We get a lot of people that come down for it — 1,100 to 1,200 people — a lot of families.”
The race day has evolved into a community festival, he said, complete with food vendors serving tacos, hot dogs, ice cream and juice.
There are games for children, face painters and a balloon artist. Music will be provided by radio station 95.9-FM The River.
Meyer said boats launch from the dock, cruise around a buoy about 200 yards out, and then head back to shore. Boats will be on display beginning at 8:30 a.m. Races begin at 10:30 a.m., he said.
All crew members must wear a flotation device; the minimum age to participate is 10.
In addition to awards given for racing prowess, standout boatbuilders will be recognized in two classes: human-powered and mechanical. Awards will be given in business, community and nonprofit categories, as well as for individuals in age categories.
All registered boats get a participation award.
While watching a boat spring a leak and slowly sink is just as much a part of the spectacle as watching a lake-worthy vessel cross the finish line, Dowd has advice for cardboard boat novices.
“The secret is the duct tape,” he said.