ORLANDO, Fla. (Nov. 4, 2026) – The Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center (RAFC), a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization, successfully hosted its second annual Cardboard Boat Race on Saturday, Oct. 10, bringing together community members, businesses and organizations from across Central Florida for a day of teamwork, creativity and friendly competition. The event raised nearly $20,000 to support drowning prevention efforts, adaptive swim lessons for all ages and skill levels, health and wellness education and facility improvements. These programs help ensure more individuals and families throughout Central Florida have access to critical water safety education and aquatic resources.

Eighteen teams across Central Florida competed in the competition, designing and building boats using only cardboard and duct tape before racing them across the pool using only ping pong paddles. The event welcomed spectators of all ages and highlighted RAFC’s mission to promote water safety, fitness and community engagement.

Major sponsors included Rosen Hotels & Resorts, Lake Cane Restoration, Step Into Swim, Lucky’s Lake Swim, Chick-fil-A Sand Lake, Towne, Greater Orlando Sports Commission and several other community partners whose support made the event possible.

“The Cardboard Boat Race is about having fun while making a lasting impact,” said Michael Miller, executive director of Rosen Aquatic & Fitness Center. “Every dollar raised helps us expand access to swim lessons and water safety education, empowering more children and families with skills that can save lives. We’re grateful to our sponsors, participants and supporters for helping us continue this important mission.”

For more information about the Cardboard Boat Race or to support RAFC’s mission, visit www.rosenaquatic.com/cardboardboatrace. Media inquiries can be directed to publicrelations@rosenhotels.com.