Senior project scientists from ODU-VMASC and two students from Hampton High School/Maritime Academy built, painted, launched and tested their boat designs within a time span of 30 hours!

How fast can you build and row a paddle boat using limited building materials, Sikaflex-291 marine adhesive and some basic tools? The Build A Boat/SIKA Challenge is a grueling competition that combines design ability, building quickness and seamanship! Teams of 2 create their design and have one day to build their boats. They must build their own hull and propulsion out of the materials provided and race on the Elizabeth River.

The USS Pixel, created by John Shull and BaTo Cvijetic of ODU-VMASC were off to a great start on race day when they started taking on water and were rammed by an opposing team! The design of the USS Pixel was created using modeling and simulation technology. Beginners Luck, constructed by high school students Josh Farrow and J’Von Barnes, moved the quickest in the current prior to capsizing from laughter!

Both teams beat a NASA designed vessel and although didn’t win their heat, instead won the hearts of the crowd at Harbor Fest. The competition was fierce with over 20 teams competing throughout the event. Come out next year and cheer on our teams paddle to victory!