17th Red Green Regatta launches this weekend
July 16, 2013
Gretchen Gordon
907-474-1891
7/16/13
KUAC’s 17th annual Red Green Regatta will launch from Graehl Park in Fairbanks at 11 a.m. Sunday, July 21. The public can view the “flotilla of fun” from Wendell and Cushman Street bridges, the pedestrian bridge near Pioneer Park and along the shores of the Chena River.
The regatta celebrates the comedy of “The Red Green Show,” which airs Saturdays at 8 p.m. on KUAC TV public broadcasting.
“In addition to inventive duct-tape prizes, made by KUAC’s student workers Caitlin Volsky and Colleen Cleland, this event features some creative uses of duct tape – that even Red Green would be impressed by,” said KUAC general manager Keith Martin.
Regatta judges rate watercraft entries on criteria like the innovative use of the handyman’s secret weapon, duct tape, and integration of the Red Green theme. Awards include “Best Viewed at a Distance” and “Most Un ‘fathom’ able.” Prizes are supplied by Paddler’s Cove Outfitters and Compeau’s.
Registrations for the regatta will be taken by phone until Friday, July 19 at noon by calling 907-474-2673. After that, register at the event between 9:30 and 11 a.m. at Graehl Park.
UAF Chancellor Brian Rogers and his wife Sherry Modrow are guest judges this year. Rogers will announce the winners at the finish line at approximately 1 p.m. at the Pioneer Park boat launch. Lead sponsor Bettisworth North Architects and Planners is joined by Glacier Point Services, Sumitomo Metal Mining Pogo, Alaska Cruise Association, Sportsmedicine and Orthopaedics Fairbanks, Dr. Dan Johnson Orthopedics, Water Wagon, Wendell Street Psychiatric Services, Pro Music, Graphic North, Paddler’s Cove Outfitters, Compeau’s and Dr. Phyllis Pendergrast.
Registration is $30 per vessel, which includes an official T-shirt designed by local artist Sue Sprinkle of 5th Avenue Design. Additional T-shirts are available at the regatta for $20 each. Official rules, prize information, liability and registration forms are available at www.kuac.org. For more information call 907-474-1891.
LS/7-16-13/009-14