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South Floridians who have the urge to build a boat
using only plywood, fast cure caulking, a spool of wire and a few
tools and then test its seaworthiness in a race are invited to
participate in the fourth annual Plywood Regatta, Apr. 29-30, during
the Ft. Lauderdale Spring Boat Show at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center.
The Marine Industries Association of South Florida
produces the Plywood Regatta to raise money for the Marine Science
& Technology Magnet Programs at New River Middle and South Broward
High School.
Anyone can enter the Plywood Regatta. There are
categories for novice and professional boat builders.
Using the limited materials, teams of four to eight members construct
boats and then two members of each team race the craft for the first
place trophy. Teams also have the chance to win trophies for being
most spirited or having the best-decorated boat.
Each year, Magnet program youngsters enter the Regatta
and apply classroom knowledge in a real world competition.
"It's great to see the kids having fun while
they're learning new skills and applying what they already know,"
said chairperson for this year's Plywood Regatta committee Brian Van
Den Breen of Cheoy Lee Shipyard. "We're helping to train the boat
builders of tomorrow and that's exciting for those of us in the
industry."
This fun event has grown rapidly and the number of
teams and sponsors participating in the regatta more than doubled last
year, raising $4,000 for the local schools. A $250 minimum donation is
required to enter. The regatta is underwritten by sponsors and all
proceeds go to school funds.
Sponsors of the event include the MIASF, Interlux
Yacht Finishes, Show Management, 3M, Merritt Marine Supply, Land 'N'
Sea Distributing and Seafarer.
For more information or to register, please call
954-524-2733 or 1-800-BOAT-001.
The MIASF is a not for profit leadership organization
created to promote the sound growth of the marine industry in South
Florida for the benefit and education of its members, the community
and the environment. Visit the MIASF Website at www.goboating.org.
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