Float Your Boat Contest

September 21, 2008

This is a fun event sponsored by the National Canal Museum, Wildlands Conservancy, Delaware and Lehigh Heritage Corridor, and the Parks Department of the City of Bethlehem.

The contest is open to any individual or group who would wish to build an inexpensive and biodegradable cardboard boat and race it in the Lehigh Canal adjacent to the Ice House on Sand Island in downtown Bethlehem September 21, 2008 starting at 1:00 PM rain or shine.

Two races are featured- the most original and/or funny design and the fastest- in the 250 foot race course in the Lehigh Canal. A prize for each of these categories plus a “Judges Selection” prize will be awarded at the completion of the contest.

Any group- or individual- can be a participant. A non-refundable fee of $10 per category is required and is to be submitted by September 19th together with the completed registration to the Parks Department, City of Bethlehem, 10 East Church Street, Bethlehem PA 18018.

Each participant must furnish their own life jacket.

The number of boats is limited. First come, first serve.

RULES

• Cardboard- no restriction, can be waxed.
• Rope or string.
• Fasteners- staples, nails, bolts or tape (masking, duct, scotch, gaffer).
• Glue, cement, paint, and sealers-must be water based.
• Wood for framing, stiffening, and fastening cardboard- 3 board feet per person.
• Any form of paddle- one to a person.
• Each racer must have his/her life jacket properly in place.
• No limit to the number of participants per boat- but two have been found to be most workable.

Not Allowed

• Metal oar locks, motor, epoxy of any type, oil based paint.

The judges will inspect each craft for compliance to the rules. Entry into both the fastest and the most original categories is welcome for the $10 entrance fee each.

Rules Questions: Contact Tom Gettings at 610-965-4397 x 40 or Dal Blandy 610-867-6849