Local pols set for cardboard boat rematch

Southampton Supervisor Anna Throne-Holst is looking for a paddle. One that wasn’t designed for a canoe.

That’s because the paddle she used last year in Riverhead’s second annual Great Cardboard Boat Race was disqualified, and Riverhead officials gave her a canoe paddle to use in her race against their supervisor, Sean Walter.

But she didn’t have enough room in her cardboard boat to kneel down properly and Walter beat her, claiming the title of King of the Peconic River.

Now, she’s looking for revenge. Or, at least, a better paddle.

Walter and the rest of Riverhead’s town board voted last week to set June 24 as the day they will hold the boat race. Last year, more than 3,000 people came to watch more than 60 boats take part in various contests.

The rules will be the same as last year: Only cardboard, duct tape and paint can be used to make the boats. Waxed cardboard is not allowed.

The races begin at noon. Potential entrants can contact the Riverhead Business Improvement District, which co-sponsors the race, or Town Councilman George Gabrielsen.

In passing its resolution to hold the race, the Riverhead Town Board noted, “The Peconic Riverfront is an excellent location for a cardboard boat race.” It is also the border between Riverhead and Southampton towns.