August 1, 2026
OAK ISLAND, NC — The Town of Oak Island drew a strong crowd Saturday for the annual Dutchman Dinghy Dash (D3), where cardboard engineering, teamwork, and plenty of on‑water creativity took center stage. Families, visitors, and longtime participants lined the waterfront as this year’s fleet of handmade cardboard boats launched for the 2026 race.
Town officials thanked sponsors, volunteers, staff, and the many boat builders whose work continues to make the Dinghy Dash one of Oak Island’s most recognizable summer traditions. Clear skies and calm conditions helped set the stage for a smooth event, with several boats delivering standout performances and a few memorable sinkings.
This year’s top finishers included: • 1st Place Youth: “Grease Lightning” • 1st Place Adult: “Swamp Chomp” • 1st Place First Responder: “Grease Lightning” • Titanic Award (Most Dramatic Sinking): “The Ever Beam” • Most Creative: “The Maxwell II” (photo credit to Town of Oak Island)
The Dutchman Dinghy Dash is held each year as part of Oak Island’s summer recreation programming, encouraging participants to build seaworthy vessels using only cardboard and tape. The event continues to grow in popularity, with returning competitors often refining designs and newcomers bringing fresh ideas to the water.
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