The Regatta’s challenge is to create one’s own boat made completely of recyclable materials and power the craft from Third and G Streets to the destination at the Island Place’s beach just west of the Nature Coast Biological Station.

First to make it to the beach was the “Cane-Tiki” craft. Captained by Rod Hunt and co-captained by Franklin Percival, the “Cane-Tiki” was built of bamboo cane and a blue tarp. The cane pieces were placed closely together to form a seat and then further apart to form the sides, bow, and aft of the boat/canoe. Hunt said the craft did well and only sprung a few small leaks. When asked how he felt to be the first-place winner, he said, “I’m tickled!”

Second to make it to the race’s destination was the “Pipe Dream” craft captained by Thomas Johnson and his uncle Heath Davis. Johnson explained that the team took two eight- or ten-foot PVC pipes, duck taped the ends to deep water out, bound them together, and put it afloat. “Pipe Dream” was named by Johnson’s grandfather. Only one of the captains rode the craft at a time during the race. 

Bringing up the rear, but certainly no less imaginatively, was Mike Allen and Jeffrey Schleede’s boat made of two used wood pallets and two used fuel cans.  When asked how he felt about finishing the race, perhaps last, but in good stead, Schleede replied, “We’ll win next year!” 

The Repurpose-It Regatta blends the meaningful mission (recycling used materials) , the camraderie (teams of young and older folks working together), and enjoyment of the outside...couldn't be a better event.

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