PULLMAN, Wash.–Fifteen Washington State University civil engineering students who won the regional concrete canoe competition in Seattle April 27 take their “Wazzu Woody” to compete against two dozen schools from across the nation June 19-21 in Cleveland, Ohio. This year’s contest is sponsored by Master Builders, Inc.
Faux-painted to resemble wood, the Woody — a 140-pound, 17-foot-long sleek skimmer made from concrete — and the team perform float tests, distance races, sprint races, Power Point and poster presentations.
Team captain is Glenn Madden. Travelling mates are Del Green, Kelli Butler, Sean Quarrie, Monique Paynter, Matt Brightman, Travis Colliander, Doug VanGelder, Terry Forslund, Bonnie Jill Pack, Juleen Esvelt, Andy Byrd, Jenn Miller, Andy Gold, and Diana Buher.
This canoe resembles the old woody station wagon decor, with gold lettered logo and graphics even painted inside the hull. Other distinguishing features are the lighter concrete mix, smoother, finer finish, easier turning design, and higher than average sides to deflect the water’s chop.
The WSU team has won the regionals for nine years in a row and has high hopes for a high national finish.
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