Beer-can boats launched at tiny regatta

ANNAPOLIS, Md., Aug. 21 (UPI) -- Dozens of people launched little sailboats made of beer cans in Maryland this weekend to raise money for a local boating group, organizers say.

The eighth annual Chesapeake Outdoor Group's 12 oz. Regatta in Annapolis Saturday drew more than 40 competitors who built boats made out of 12-ounce cans, The Baltimore Sun reported.

Root beer cans were given to those under the legal drinking, while adults got Budweiser or Bud Light can.

Starting a week before the regatta, racers are able to pick up a 5-gallon bucket with permitted building materials inside, including a six-pack. Rules state that when the boat is finished, it must fit inside the bucket.

"It's an intellectual endeavor. It's just the sailor's version, which involves beer cans," said Steve Eagley, a financial planner and sailor who helped his daughter build a Root Beer class boat. "You wouldn't even recognize it as a beer can."

Proceeds from the fundraiser, held at the Port Annapolis Marina, went to Annapolis Community Boating.