Float a boat at Build-a-Boat competition

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Heather Stanton
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The annual Build-a-Boat competition will take place at 4:30 p.m. July 14 at the Olympic Pool here.

For the competition, teams have one hour to build a boat out of cardboard and duct tape. Then the vessel's captain and first mate must get in and paddle be the first team to cross the finish line.

"This is a time for Airmen to get creative with the bare minimum and see how long they can float and if they can make it across the finish line," said Mary Rawles, 4th Force Support Squadron Heritage Hall Community Center director. "The competition gives Airmen a break from the day-to-day and a chance to build morale."

The first team across the finish line will receive a traveling trophy, $100 toward their squadron holiday party and bragging rights. Second place will receive $50 toward their holiday party. There will also be prizes for best team cheer and best dressed team.

Last year's victors, the 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office, are coming back to defend their title.

"You think our photographers are just out there documenting the event?" asks Senior Airman Rae Perry, PA photographer. "We see what the other teams are doing and make our boat that much better. We're out there to win."

Each team requires at least two people, the captain and first mate, but up to eight can help build and decorate the boat, said Ms. Rawles. The competition is open to all Airmen, dependents and Department of Defense civilians and all materials are provided.

"Be creative, do research and come prepared to work as a team," Ms. Rawles advises.
To sign up for the competition, call the Heritage Hall Community Center at 722-0339.

"I pity the fool who goes up against PA," said Staff Sgt. Peter Ising, PA's video production NCOIC. "All the ships will sink in the wake of our awesomeness."