Team Fraser, nephew Ben and uncle Eric Fraser bask in the glory of a hard-fought victory.
Who would have thought that the third annual cardboard boat competition at University Yacht Club on July 4 would be so exciting? Diverse boat designs strategic tactics add a photo finish made the race one for the record books.
Five cardboard vessels fought for first-place honors, including Commodore Mike Lee, in his first foray into the contest.
Three-time competitor Jerry Reeves was edged out by a nose when Team Fraser, uncle Eric Fraser and his nephew Ben, took advantage of a shift in the wind at the last minute. Team Fraser’s battleship design included a row of cannons on the bow, creating – almost – intimidating fire-power.
“Unfortunately the bottle rockets I had installed got wet, so a better design is required to facilitate a more realistic call to ‘general quarters,’ (otherwise known as man your battle stations),” Eric said. Team Fraser is already looking forward to July 4, 2027.
“Our vessel is currently in dry dock but far from mothballed. Retrofitting and upgrades will commence after next year’s opening ceremony,” he said. “It’s our ambition to commission an additional vessel and crew to bolster the Fraser Fleet and raise the club’s spirits even higher next year.”
Action-packed! – For the third year, University Yacht Club has brought out serious competitors for its July 4 Cardboard Boat Race. Chip Fincher and Commodore Mike Lee get a running start to launch their USS Commodore.
The Independence Day holiday included July 3 fireworks, sponsored by University Yacht Club.
“The annual July 3 fireworks is a long-standing tradition for University Yacht Club,” Lee said. “It’s our gift to the Lake Lanier community, and what better way to celebrate our nation’s independence?”
Photo of winners: by Pamela A. Keene, Photo of competitors: by Kevin Schoonover
