The Smithfield Yacht Club will open once again for the River Rat Regatta on the Neuse on Saturday, August 9th. The event will feature a race between 2-person teams in cardboard boats from Smithfield’s Boat Ramp on N. Front Street to the Deputy C. Paul West, Sr. Bridge.

Schedule of events:

8:00am - Boat Registration

8:45am - Judging

9:45am - Captains Meeting

10:00am - Regatta Begins

11:45am - Awards

The boats must be constructed entirely from corrugated cardboard, glue, and duct tape. Entries will compete in either the Youth (under 13) or Adult division, and prizes will be awarded for the fastest 1st and 2nd in the Youth division and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the Adult division. There will also be overall awards given for Best Decorated and the Titanic Award for most memorable sinking. Rules and registration forms are available online or in-person at the Smithfield Recreation and Aquatics Center.