Videos: 2009 Pirates of Keweenaw Cardboard Boat Races

HOUGHTON -- Here are some video clips of the Pirates of the Keweenaw cardboard boat races held on Father's Day, June 21, 2009, at the Houghton Waterfront. See also our slide show (right-hand column) with captions for details of the races.

In the first heat the "Smart Zone ?" challenges the Champion City of Hancock's "Re-Loaded" boat. (Video clips by Keweenaw Now)

After a battle with water pistols and bio-degradable water balloons, the "Flying Dutchman" and its rival, "The Brits," (?) both succomb to a dramatic sinking in the first heat, winning them second and third place, respectively, for the "Best Sinking" award. The Flying Dutchman also won first place for "Best Decorated."

In the second heat, traditional rivals Hancock and Houghton head for the finish line. This video clip shows the winner. Houghton tied with the Smart Zone for the "Most People on Boat" award (9), while Hancock had 8 crew members, according to announcer Bob Mark.

In the third, championship heat it's Elo Wittig ("David") in his "Tennessee Stud" against Hancock's "Re-Loaded" ("Goliath") for a dramatic finish.

Is this Goliath's hurt pride? Hancock requests an extra heat against the three other big boats? A few paddlers go overboard as Hancock and Houghton collide at sea and head for the finish from opposite directions...

For more views and details of the Pirates of the Keweenaw Cardboard Boat Races click on our slide show at the top of the right-hand column.