Capsizing Boats Part of the Fun at SummerFest Cardboard Boat Regatta

Is it a sign of things to come when one of the prizes for a boat race is the Titanic Award?

Northview Lake was filled with spectators watching dozens of people, primarily children, dressed in creative costumes race in cardboard boats at the 16th annual SummerFest Cardboard Boat Regatta July 13.

The regatta had four different age groups. First-, second- and third-place prizes were given in each age group for the most creative award and the Titanic award.

Macy Nicholson of Ankeny won a race in a boat designed as like one Hawaiians were renowned for. She said it took a couple weeks to fabricate. 

"I can't believe we won," Nicholson said. "It feels awesome."

The basic requirements for the regatta: Every boat had to be made out of cardboard and could only be powered by paddles. The event was sponsored by John Deere Des Moines Works.