PHS Regatta Tests Physics Knowledge

AP Physics Students Race Handmade Boats in Annual Regatta

Two handmade boats tied for first place during Poudre High School’s annual Physics Regatta, an event which tests students’ mastery of physics along with their ingenuity, creativity and courage.

Using the principles of streamline design, buoyancy and waterproofing, 78 students designed and constructed 31 boats seaworthy enough to carry two student competitors during the 15-minute race held on Terry Lake in May.  All boats entered in the race were constructed from the same materials---corrugated cardboard and white glue.

“The boat race was a lot of fun,” said Kristy Bibbey, PHS science teacher.  “Two teams tied for first place, and both winning boats completed 20 laps of 100 feet each.”

Winning boats were "The Luau," designed by seniors Claire Makinen and Deanna Rhoads, and "The Floating Carpet," designed by seniors Danille Mayer and Hannah Schirber. 

Seniors Pat Bloemen, Austin Jesser and junior Ronnie Toplyn’s boat "Cool Swimming’s” won the award for showmanship and design.

The regatta is the annual culminating activity for PHS’ physics class.  As winners of the race, Makinen, Rhoads, Mayer, and Schirber will have their names engraved on a plaque which will hang in a place of honor in PHS’ physics lab.