The 2024 Homecoming Cardboard Boat Race, originally planned to be held Oct. 4 at the Houghton Waterfront Park, has been relocated to Centennial Park in Chassell due to the recent beach washout. This decision was made to ensure the safety of participants while maintaining the tradition of the event. Teams will still compete in designing and racing their homemade cardboard boats.
Given the challenges of transporting large cardboard boats, teams must comply with Michigan traffic laws regarding vehicle load dimensions. Specifically, Section 257.718 of Michigan Law restricts vehicles from carrying loads that extend more than six inches beyond the right fender. The law also states: “There shall be displayed at the extreme rear end of such load a red flag or cloth not less than 12 inches square and so hung that the entire area is visible to the driver of a vehicle approaching from the rear.” Amy Hjerstedt, the coordinator of Student Leadership and Involvement, would also like to remind students not to use paint for their boats.
The Homecoming Committee encourages teams to arrive early to allow for the safe unloading of their boats and to follow all posted traffic rules. For those unfamiliar with the area, parking will be available near Centennial Park. The race intends to go on as usual despite the location change.
