On your mark

Islanders recently took part in the annual Seafair Milk Carton Derby race at Green Lake in Seattle.

Siblings Dario (left), Olivia (center) and Dorotea Castellote (right) participated in the annual Seafair Milk Carton Derby race last Saturday at Green Lake in Seattle. The race, held every year since 1976, sees a number of kooky watercraft compete for best time bragging rights, though crossing the finish line without becoming waterlogged is a victory in and of itself.

The Castellotes were the only team from Vashon to race in the competition this year, according to their father, Manolo. They placed fourth in their category (youth aged 8-13).

To enter, the family collected empty milk jugs from restaurants and coffee shops on Vashon and used them to construct their raft, setting on a maiden voyage at Lisabeula before race day.

“It was a lot of fun for them. They were really excited,” said Manolo. “It moved slowly so they were really struggling to go fast, but I think for them it really worked out, and it was a time for them to work together.”