You know it’s silly boat time when someone dons a pirate costume.
“Pirates are a given at the event,” said Michelle Kocourek, Child Development Centre resource development coordinator.
Maffeo Sutton Park is going to be filled with people in zany and fun costumes building vessels to participate in the annual Silly Boat Regatta this Sunday (July 15).
The regatta is 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Team boat building starts at 8 a.m. Family activities run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The first race begins at 1 p.m. and the grand championship race is at 3 p.m.
The event raises money for the CDC to continue running its programs, which helps children in the community develop communication and motor skills and other tools to reach their full potential.
Part of the fun at the event is seeing the interesting boat designs participants come up with, said Kocourek.
“The whole day is such an eye catching event – not only the boats are entertaining to watch, but the costumes too,” she said. “Every year I’m surprised at their imagination and how much they enjoy themselves while doing something for such a great cause. It’s amazing to see how supportive the community is on coming out.”
This year, 44 teams are registered with a maximum of 56 teams able to compete. Last year 42 teams participated and the event raised $112,000 for the Child Development Centre.
This year’s goal is to raise $125,000. The money helps support the programs and open up spots for children waiting. There are 326 children waiting for services at the centre with the most demand for speech and occupational therapy.
While the day is about having fun and raising money for a good cause, there is still an element of competition among those competing.
“We’re in the thing to win it,” said Sandra Aguiar, manager of the Kiyo Salon & Day Spa. “We have some secret plans this year.”
The team, Kiyo Commandos, is ready to give other participants some stiff competition, but is ready to have some fun as well.
“It’s a great team thing – it’s awesome, it builds moral,” said Aguiar.
To raise money to reach its goal of $1,700, the salon is hosting Makeover Madness Saturday (July 14) from noon to 6 p.m. at its Nanaimo and Parksville locations.
Staff are donating time and all the money raised. A minimum donation of $20-$25, depending on the service, is suggested. People are asked to pre-book their appointments because spots are filling up fast, said Aguiar. For more information please go to www.kiyosalon.com or call 250-716-9916.
For more information about the Silly Boat Regatta, please go to sillyboat.com.
reporter3@nanaimobulletin.com
