Last Updated on June 10, 2025
The annual Cardboard Boat Regatta at Cross Keys Village once again delivered a spectacle of ingenuity and aquatic mishaps. Teams crafted vessels from cardboard, tape, and paint, then raced them across the community pond, much to the delight of hundreds of cheering spectators. This year's event culminated in a dramatic finish, showcasing both creative boat designs and inevitable sinkings.
The Unsinkable Spirit of Cardboard
On Friday, June 6, the Cross Keys Village Brethren Home Community hosted its 16th annual Cardboard Boat Regatta. This unique event challenges participants to construct boats using only cardboard, tape, and paint, then race them in a pond. What began as a small internal competition in the Harvey S. Kline Wellness Center swimming pool has grown into a highly anticipated community event, drawing crowds from beyond the village.
- The regatta is known for its blend of competitive spirit and humorous boat-sinking antics.
- The event typically lasts around 37 minutes and is held rain or shine.
- Announcers from Froggy 107.7 and a food truck from Dough & Arrows were present this year.
This Year's Contenders and Champions
Five teams bravely entered their cardboard creations into the 2025 regatta:
- Wildlife Warriors: A safari-themed entry.
- Team Phil: Inspired by Groundhog Day.
- Floatin' Ecker: Representing Pa. state Rep. Torren Ecker and his family.
- Blazing Paddles: A fire engine-themed boat.
- Hawaiian Rollercoaster: An island-hopping design.
While speed is often a factor, the ultimate victory this year went to the Hawaiian Rollercoaster, which proved to be the most resilient vessel. Their win came after a dramatic final heat where both Team Phil and the Wildlife Warriors succumbed to the water, giving their best impressions of the Titanic near the finish line. One announcer humorously suggested queuing Celine Dion as a boat began to sink.
A Tradition of Fun and Folly
The Cardboard Boat Regatta is a beloved tradition at Cross Keys Village, known for its lighthearted competition and the inevitable, often spectacular, failures of the cardboard vessels. Competitors are typically staff and volunteers from the community, though others can express interest through the Wellness team. The event has seen as many as 12 boats entered in previous years, highlighting its enduring popularity and the community's embrace of this wonderfully whimsical aquatic challenge.
Sources
- 2025 Cross Keys Village Cardboard Boat Regatta held June 6, The Evening Sun.
- 2025 Cross Keys Brethren Home Cardboard Boat Regatta, The Evening Sun.
