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Riverhead readies for Sunday’s big cardboard boat races

BARBARAELLEN KOCH PHOTO | Dan Leonard of Calverton and Councilman John Dunleavy clean out some trash from a canoe on loan from Treasure Cove marina.

A handful of volunteers and Business Improvement District employees helped clean the Peconic River Friday in Riverhead in anticipation of Sunday’s third annual cardboard boat race in downtown.

Though the river appeared mostly clear of junk, some debris was found stuck between a floating dock and the riverfront boardwalk.

Treasure Cove Marina lent three canoes to those who showed to help, including Dan Leonard of Calverton and town Councilman John Dunleavy.

Cardboard, duct tape and paint are the only allowable materials for boats participating in the races, which draw huge crowds to the river behind East Main Street.

Check-in and boat inspection starts at 10 a.m. Sunday and the races kick off at noon.

The BID — a special district that taxes downtown area business owners and uses the funds to plan events and promotions — runs the races.

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BARBARAELLEN KOCH PHOTO | BID workers Lucas Bennett of Riverhead (foreground) and Anthony Cook of Southold clean behind a floating dock.