Build Your Own Boat Competition

Overview

• Teams may consist of 1-4 people
• All boats must be human powered

Dimension & Weight Limits 

• Maximum weight: 150 pounds 

• Maximum dimensions: 10’ wide x 10’ long x 5’ tall  

• Maximum boat wall height: 2’ measured from the interior floor surface to the top of the side wall  

Crafting Requirements 

• Avoid creating enclosures and compartments that can entrap paddlers 

• Avoid open loops that an arm, leg, or other part of the body may pass through and entangle a paddler 

• Avoid sharp objects, sharp corners, or pointed structures that can cut or stab paddlers 

• Consider the possibility of a capsized craft and how the craft may react in that position 

• Consider exit pathways that allow easy separation from the craft no matter the position of the boat 

• If wood is used, it may not be over ¼” thick 

• Rope, webbing, straps, or other securing materials may not be over 18” long 

• Trim zip ties to a flush finish 

• All materials must float, so select materials that maintain buoyancy even when they crack or break apart 

Prohibited Items & Materials 

• Manufactured watercrafts such as rafts, kayaks, river boards, canoes, paddle boards, jet skis or other crafts

• All metal objects, including but not limited to nails, screws, staples, sheet metal  

• Large sections of tarp or plastic that can engulf a swimmer 

• Pyrotechnics, pneumatics, or other mechanically propelled devices  

• Costumes that impede the function of the helmet or personal floatation device 

• Masks or facial coverings that obstruct vision or breathing  

• Costumes that when saturated impede a swimmer’s movement or mobility 
• Use of an apparatus to attach, secure, or bind a paddler to a craft.  

• Overall: Scored based on style and completion. Boats failing to complete the entire channel will not be eligible for the Overall Award.
  • Boats that do not complete the competition channel are still eligible for the Style Award and the Fan’s Choice Award.
• Style: Boats will be ranked based on creativity, design and theme.
• Fan’s Choice: Based on crowd applause and reaction.

• Waiver Policy
  • All participants must sign the Whitewater Center Assumption of Risk Agreement before participating.
  • Waiver may be printed and brought to packet pick-up or completed on site.
  • The waiver is not included in the online registration form.

• Refund and Transfer Policy
  • Race Registration is non-refundable.

• Trail Safety
  • Trails will be open to other runners, hikers and bikers at all times.
  • Communicate when passing other trail users.
  • No E-bikes or any form of powered transportation are permitted in any Whitewater Race Series events.

• Weather Policy
  • Events are scheduled to proceed rain or shine.
  • The Whitewater Center reserves the right to alter/reschedule/cancel any Whitewater Race Series event at any time.

• Parking Policy
  • The Whitewater Center has a $13 daily parking fee. Annual parking passes are available for $45.

• Emergency Policy
  • The Whitewater Center does not conduct trail rescues.
  • Participants must call 911 if emergency services are needed.
  • Emergency location markers are located within the trail system.