Community Crews

This division is full. Registering your team will add you to the waitlist for this event. 

For nonprofits, clubs and civic organizations, schools and teams, families, friend groups and inidviduals. 

If you are not promoting a business, this is your division! 

All participants must sign a liability waiver prior to the event. 

BOAT BUILDING RULES & REGULATIONS

• Boat dimensions may not exceed 10 feet in length, 5 feet in width or height.
• Only corrugated cardboard is allowed (any thickness is permitted) to create the entire hull, superstructure, and seating of all boats.
• Only seams and joints may be taped, not the whole boat.
• One homemade paddle may be used; cardboard and tape only, not to exceed 3 feet in length.
• The boat design may not completely enclose any body part. Passenger compartment should be of open-air design to allow riders an unrestricted exit.
• All boats are subject to an inspection for compliance with these rules. Violations may be fixed and re-inspected before entering the water. Event staff has final say on what will be allowed for boat construction.
• Prohibited Items: Electrical components, tar-based substances, water-resistant coatings, two-part varnishes, fiberglass resin, epoxy glue, any other two-part substances, Corrugated cardboard that's bonded to any material or fasteners such as nuts, bolts, staples or nails.
• Thru the Chute is a family-friendly community event. All boat designs, decorations, themes, signage, costumes and props must be appropriate for all ages and reflect the inclusive spirit of the event.

PARTICIPANT SAFETY

• No more than 4 crew members are allowed in any boat. (This number may be reduced by City staff if deemed necessary due to river flow rate, etc.)
• All boat occupants are encouraged to wear a USCG approved life jacket. Life jackets are required for participants under the age of 12. Life jackets are available at the Tube Chute.
• Participants under the age of 18 must have a waiver signed by a parent/guardian. Participants under the age of 18 must also be accompanied on boat by an adult over the age of 18.
• Please cheer on other teams and be supportive of all in attendance. Any unsportsmanlike conduct could result in disqualification of a team.
• Alcohol is not permitted at Prince Solms Park, Hinman Island or the Tube Chute. 
• Any alcohol consumption or display by team members before, during, or after the race on City property is cause for disqualification and removal from property.
• Glass is not permitted in any City of New Braunfels park or in the waterway. 
• Event takes place “rain or shine.” However, in the event of lightning or severe weather, the event will be moved to 4/18/26.

BOAT RUN INFORMATION

• You will be assigned a lineup number by email prior to the day of the event. At boat check-in, staff will assist with boat placement. Staff will prompt you when you may enter the water with your boat.
• After your boat has completed your run throuth the tube chute teams must collect all boat debris from the water.
• Stay with your boat. Your team will assist Parks team members in transporting your boat to the dumpsters.
• All boats are subject to post-run inspection. Any prohibited construction materials will result in disqualification.

Rules subject to change with river conditions.

JUDGING AND AWARD CATEGORIES

In this division, awards will be given in each of the following categories: 

• Judges Choice (Best overall entry in the Community Crews division): Awarded to the entry that best represents the spirit of Thru the Chute through creativity, effort, fun, and execution.
• Most Creative (Best theme, concept, or visual storytelling): Recognizes originality, imagination, and how well the idea comes to life—regardless of budget or materials.
• Best Team Spirit (Most enthusiastic and engaging team): Awarded for costumes, energy, teamwork, and interaction with the crowd and judges.
• Best DIY Build (Outstanding ingenuity and resourcefulness): Honors clever construction, problem-solving, and creativity—especially from low-budget or first-time builders.
• Rookie Row (Top first-time entry): Recognizes the strongest performance by a team entering Thru the Chute for the first time. (Only eligible if "Rookie Row" is selected on the application.) 
• Epic Fail (Most entertaining wipeout): Awarded for memorable mishaps handled with humor, commitment, and good sportsmanship.
• *Crowd Favorite: Chosen by spectator vote. Open to all entries across both divisions. This award is determined by public voting and is not judge-scored.