"Build-a-Boat Challenge" Returns to Ocean Institute, New Teams Encouraged to Participate

DANA POINT, CA, March 30, 2009 - New teams are encouraged to participate in the Ocean Institute's 6th annual "Build-a-Boat Challenge," a one-day contest in which participants design, build and race their own boats. The event will be held Saturday, June 13, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Team members must secure sponsorship donations totaling at least $3,000.

The competition will be held at the Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Blvd., Dana Point, and at Baby Beach, alongside the Institute. Participants must be part of a team, but spectators are welcome to watch the races, which begin at 1 p.m., free of charge.

Each team is supplied with limited resources and given four hours in which to build a boat. Once the boats are completed, they are taken to Baby Beach where they participate in a race. Many, to the enjoyment of spectators and participants alike, sink before reaching the finish line.

New in 2009

This year, there will be a team for members of the Ocean Institute. Groups of two members may participate for $200. One participant must be at least 17 years of age, and child participants must be at least 8 years old. Space is limited; register by May 15. For information about becoming a member, visit www.ocean-institute.org or call (949) 496-2274.

For additional information, please see the Ocean Institute website at www.ocean-institute.org, or call Ellen Meese at (949) 496-2274, ext. 412.