Yesterday, the Redondo Beach Rotary Club welcomed more than 400 Rotarians and friends to Seaside Lagoon for the 19th Rotary District 5280 Picnic, where attendees enjoyed a perfect escape from the summer heat with fun, food, and fellowship.
A highlight of the afternoon was the 16th annual Cardboard Boat Race, featuring nine creative entries from clubs across the District. For the second year in a row, the Downey Rotary Club claimed first place. The RYLA (Rotary Youth Exchange) team, sponsored by the Hollywood Club, took second place, while Redondo Beach Rotary secured third with “Flash,” a boat captained by Brody Abel, son of member Michele Abel.
Following the friendly competition on the water, guests indulged in the always-popular Chili Cook-Off Contest and were treated to lively entertainment, dancing alongside Polynesian performers. As the sun dipped below the Pacific horizon, the day wrapped up with tired feet, happy hearts, and plenty of smiles—marking another successful year of Rotary camaraderie at the District Picnic.