The Adel Aquatic Center is welcoming all boaters to participate in a friendly competition on Friday.

The organization is hosting their Cardboard Boat Regatta on Friday. Aquatics Supervisor Ramona Dillinger tells Raccoon Valley Radio that the goal is for people to make boats out of cardboard and duct tape revolving around a specific theme. She outlines materials that are acceptable to use include wood, metal, Styrofoam, cardboard tubes, plastic sheets, fiberglass, plus inflation and flotation devices. 

Dillinger reveals that there will be three age divisions consisting of youth from 7-12 year olds, teens from 13-18, and a family category for people who are not in the same age group. She adds that there will also be an open division. Dillinger says that teams will consist of two people in each boat, and are welcome to dress up. She expresses that awards will be given to the quickest ship, the longest lasting ship, most creative boat, best shipwreck, best crew, and all around. Dillinger shares that the event is happening for free on Friday, as boats are scheduled to arrive at 5:30pm at the Adel Aquatic Center, 1800 South 15th Street, with the races beginning at 6pm. For more information, contact the Adel Aquatic Center at (515)-993-5246.