Cardboard boat race on for United Way

Hundreds will gather for the 13th annual "What Floats Your Cardboard Boat" race at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at Mastodon Lake at Phillips Park, 1000 Ray Moses Drive, Aurora.

The event, which serves as the official kickoff of Fox Valley United Way's 2015-2016 fundraising campaign, challenges organizations, families and friends to create an unsinkable cardboard boat that is entered into one of several heats. As teams pedal or paddle their way to the finish line, fans cheer on and vote for their favorite vessel.

Each year, the event draws uniquely decorated boats with costumed sailors looking to be among the fastest finishers or most spectacular sinkings.

To date, 20 cardboard creations are entered, including entries from the Aurora Fire Department and Aurora Police Department, Caterpillar, Old Second National Bank, Hesed House, Hope for Tomorrow, Mutual Ground, Castle Bank and Presence Mercy Medical Center.

Boater check-in begins at 8 a.m. and fans can begin to vote for their favorite vessel when activities start at 9 a.m. Races begin at 10:30 a.m.

First-, second- and third-place trophies are awarded in each of six divisions: adult, business, nonprofit, partner agency, mechanical and community. A special trophy is presented for the "Most Spectacular Sinking."

The event is free to spectators and includes activities for the whole family. Balloon twisting, face painting and games for the children are part of the fun.

Attendees also will have a chance to meet representatives from many of the social service agencies supported by Fox Valley United Way donations.

For details, visit www.uwfoxvalley.org.