Inaugural Cardboard Paddle Battle makes a splash [Video]

WAUSAU, Wis. (WSAW) – On Saturday, the Wausau Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department offered a new way to cool off in the summer heat—the first annual Cardboard Paddle Battle!

They took inspiration from other events in the area, but this was their first time doing anything like this.

After months of planning, seven teams headed to Sunnyvale Park Saturday morning for the Cardboard Paddle Battle. Starting at 8:30 a.m., the competitors built boats out of only cardboard and duct tape. The department had lots of cardboard donated to them, so they said this was a great way to put it to use.

When the building and decorating were done, the teams participated in a race. One at a time, they selected their paddlers and were timed as they raced out to a buoy and back.

Awards like ‘Most Creative Boat’ and ‘Best Team Spirit’ were given in a ceremony alongside …