2009 CONCRETE CANOE TEAM

 

Each year universities throughout the United States design, build, and race full-size canoes made entirely of reinforced concrete. These canoes are judged in regional competitions based on design, construction quality, racing performance, technical paper and oral presentation of the design process. The overall winner from each region is then invited to compete at the national competition. Concrete canoes generally range in length from 16 feet to 24 feet and can weigh as little as 75 pounds. The same engineering students who build these four-person canoes paddle them on a quarter-mile course.

 

Why Concrete?  Concrete is an economical and commonly available building material that gains strength in water. With proper design and construction, a durable and seaworthy craft can be constructed at a reasonable cost. (Plus, it's challenging and fun.) Archimedes' Principle ensures that a medium such as water will provide a buoyant force equal to the weight of the medium displaced. The shape of a concrete canoe must be carefully designed such that the total weight of the canoe and its occupants will not exceed the volume of water displaced when the canoe is partially submerged to the most efficient waterline. Additionally, each canoe is required to float when completely filled with water in order to meet safety regulations for water-craft. Schools use "high-tech" concretes that are less dense than water in order to meet this requirement. This year is also focused on sustainability, using recycled materials in the canoe and sustainable practices during construction.

 

PREVIOUS TEAMS

The 2008 Concrete Canoe Team raced in beautiful Blue Lake Park right here in Portland, OR. The team was great as they paddled Resolution across the finish line in each race. Way to go team!

The 2005 Concrete Canoe Team participated in the regional competition in Helena, MT.  The team raced well took third in the women's dash and the co-ed slalom.

If you are interested in helping with the 2009 Concrete Canoe Team, please contact the Concrete Canoe Captain.