FriendSHIP Wins First Place at the Cardboard Canoe Regatta

Mariners launched seaworthy vessels into the mighty Mississippi River at the 8th annual Cardboard Canoe Regatta last weekend. The resourcefulness and creativity on display ranged from a Jackson Pollack model to a Viking ship-inspired version. Each boat was hand-built using cardboard, tape, and colorful water-based paint.

Most boats completed the entire course, but a few sank quickly into Piasa Harbor. Taking a plunge into the water didn’t seem to dampen spirits, though, and it certainly provided ample entertainment for observers on shore.

The winning boat, “FriendSHIP,” piloted by Kent Heckel and Joey White, was in such good shape after the race that it will be on display as a promo for the 2016 race. The pair devised a building method to strengthen the structure and keep water out. “After a rough start we blasted off,” Kent says. “Our boat was incredibly fast, and we were super excited about it! We had the best time and can't wait to come back next year.” His co-captain, Joey, agrees: “When you try hard at something that isn't necessarily labeled as important, but you have fun and try your best, the task becomes important to your growth as a person, and you become better from it.”

Here are the official results:

First Place—The FriendSHIP      

Rowers and designers Kent Heckel (sophomore) and Joey White (freshman)

Second Place—S.S. Hercules

Rower Gavin Austin (freshman)

Designers Samantha Frank and Allegra Pierce (freshmen)

Third Place—The Camillion 

Rowers Jenny Arini and Samantha Frank (freshmen) 

Designers Jenny Arini, Tyler Wingert, and Emily Tippets (freshmen)