29th Annual Plywood Regatta Kicks Off with a Bang
The Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) just finished hosting the 29th Annual Plywood Regatta, which took place on April 25 and 26, 2026. Now entering its third decade, the event grew in both participation and impact, welcoming a mix of returning teams and new students from middle and high schools across South Florida.
Day one took place at Snyder Park, where teams built their vessels, according to the organization. Day two returned to The FORT, where students launched and raced their creations along the shoreline. This marks the second year at both locations, made possible through the continued partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale and The FORT.
Using only three sheets of plywood, six furring strips, 120 zip ties, fast-cure caulk, marine-grade paint and hand tools, students worked alongside mentors, according to the organization, many of whom are MIASF members and longtime Plywood Regatta participants who return each year to support and guide the next generation.
“Some of the kids come in not knowing each other at all, and within two days you see them open up, find their roles, and really come together as a team,” said Orianna Caruso, Facilities Manager at Safe Harbor Lauderdale Marine Center and mentor for The Frogfather, a New River Middle School team, in a news release. “They start to recognize each other’s strengths, support one another, and build friendships that you know will last beyond this weekend.”
A first-time parent shared plans to return each year, telling MIASF that she appreciates the chance for her child to step away from screens and engage in something meaningful, while a returning teacher noted that this experience reflects the future of learning through creativity, collaboration and problem solving.
Top Awards
• RPM Diesel Overall Winner: Cranium Crushers
Captain Division | Boy Scout Troop NT32 | Sponsor: Headhunters, Inc.
• Fort Lauderdale Mariners Club Best All Round: The Fierce Frogmen
Mate Division | USNSCC American Veterans Division | Sponsor: National Navy UDT SEAL Museum
• Most Innovative Design: The Flaming Chili Peppers
Mate Division | New River Middle School | Sponsor: Watermakers, Inc.
• Most Spirited Team: Andiamo
Mate Division | New River Middle School | Sponsor: Stanley Yacht Services
• Best Decorated Boat: Mahi Mavericks
Admiral Division | USNSCC American Veterans Division | Sponsor: U.S. Navy League Palm Beach Council
• Courage & Perseverance: Gator Me Timbers
Mate Division | Sawgrass Springs Middle School | Sponsor: Fort Lauderdale Mariners Club
• Future Yacht Broker Award: The Black Pearl
Admiral Division | Nova High School | Sponsor: STAR Center
• Best Leader by Example (Mentor Award): Phantom Thieves
Admiral Division | Nova High School | Mentor: Ashley del Cueto and Ashley DeMarzo |
Division Winners
Admiral Division
1st – Phantom Thieves | Nova High School
2nd – Big Wahoo | Boy Scout Troop NT32
3rd – Atlas’s Burden | Nova High School
Captain Division
1st – Cranium Crushers | Boy Scout Troop NT32
2nd – Salty Dogs | USNSCC American Veterans Division
3rd – Pump Out Boat | Stranahan High School
Mate Division
1st – Controlled Chaos | New River Middle School
2nd – Odyssey | Coral Springs Middle School
3rd – The Flaming Chili Peppers | New River Middle School
This year, MIASF awarded $20,000 in scholarships to students pursuing careers in the marine industry and related fields.
