More than Just a Race
The Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) hosted the 29th Annual Plywood Regatta on April 25 and 26, 2026. Now entering its third decade, the event continues to grow in both participation and impact, welcoming a mix of returning teams and new students from middle and high schools across South Florida.
Day 1 took place at Snyder Park, where teams built their vessels. Day 2 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, many of whom are MIASF members and longtime Plywood Regatta participants who return each year to support and guide the next generation.
Over the course of the weekend, a clear transformation took place as some students who started out shy found their place within their teams and learned how to rely on one another.
“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. “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, appreciating 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.
The 2026 event also drew local media coverage, highlighting the Plywood Regatta’s growing presence in the South Florida community and its role in building the future of the marine industry through the next generation of engineers, marine scientists, and beyond.
Top Awards:
• RPM Diesel Overall Winner: Cranium CrushersCaptain Division | Boy Scout Troop NT32 | Sponsor: Headhunters, Inc.
• Fort Lauderdale Mariners Club Best All Round: The Fierce FrogmenMate Division | USNSCC American Veterans Division | Sponsor: National Navy UDT SEAL Museum
• Most Innovative Design: The Flaming Chili PeppersMate Division | New River Middle School | Sponsor: Watermakers, Inc.
• Most Spirited Team: AndiamoMate Division | New River Middle School | Sponsor: Stanley Yacht Services
• Best Decorated Boat: Mahi MavericksAdmiral Division | USNSCC American Veterans Division | Sponsor: U.S. Navy League Palm Beach Council
• Courage & Perseverance: Gator Me TimbersMate Division | Sawgrass Springs Middle School | Sponsor: Fort Lauderdale Mariners Club
• Future Yacht Broker Award: The Black PearlAdmiral Division | Nova High School | Sponsor: STAR Center
• Best Leader by Example (Mentor Award): Phantom ThievesAdmiral Division | Nova High School | Mentor: Ashley del Cueto and Ashley DeMarzo |
Sponsor: American Yacht Agents
Division Winners:
Admiral Division1st – Phantom Thieves | Nova High School2nd – Big Wahoo | Boy Scout Troop NT323rd – Atlas’s Burden | Nova High School
Captain Division1st – Cranium Crushers | Boy Scout Troop NT322nd – Salty Dogs | USNSCC American Veterans Division3rd – Pump Out Boat | Stranahan High School
Mate Division1st – Controlled Chaos | New River Middle School2nd – Odyssey | Coral Springs Middle School3rd – The Flaming Chili Peppers | New River Middle School
This year, MIASF proudly awarded $20,000 in scholarships to students pursuing careers in the marine industry and related fields, reinforcing its commitment to developing the next generation of talent and strengthening the marine workforce.
As the Plywood Regatta approaches its 30th year, the event continues to grow in both participation and impact, creating lasting opportunities for students while supporting the future of the marine industry.
MIASF extends sincere appreciation to the sponsors, volunteers, and partners whose support made this event possible.
All proceeds from the Plywood Regatta benefit marine industry education initiatives in South Florida and the Plywood Regatta Scholarship Fund.
For more information, visit plywoodregatta.com or call (954)-524-2733. For photos and media material, please visit our social media pages or miasf.org.