Build-a-Boat Challenge” Returns to Ocean Institute,
Spectators Invited to Watch Boat Races
Dana Point, CALIF.,–¬ Spectators are invited to watch the afternoon boat races of 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. at Baby Beach, alongside the Ocean 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.
Be Part of a Team – Individuals wishing to participate in the actual boat building may form a team; team members must secure sponsorship donations totaling at least $3,000. 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.
Open to the Public on Weekends – The Ocean Institute is open to the general public on Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Weekend visitors can enjoy special seasonal exhibits, as well as hundreds of living ocean animals, and shark and jellyfish feedings. Cost: $6.50 adults, $4.50 children ages 3-12. Or, with the purchase of a membership, a family can enjoy year-round free admission, benefit from member-only events and receive discounts on all other programs.
Visitors can also board one of the Ocean Institute’s sea-going vessels, the state-of-the-art R/V Sea Explorer or the historic tallship Spirit of Dana Point. Cruises are an additional charge. For information, visit www.ocean-institute.org.
Founded in 1977, the Ocean Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to ocean preservation through education, setting the standard for educational excellence and serving as a leading resource for universities, museums, teachers and all others seeking to increase their knowledge of the ocean.
2008 Business of the Year – The Dana Point Chamber of Commerce has selected the Ocean Institute as Dana Point’s “Business of the Year.” The award recognizes the positive contribution the Ocean Institute has made to the Dana Point community.
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