Physics Phlotilla Floats on in Spectacular Fashion

On May 19, 1995, dozens of students descended upon the pond outside of Carl C. Icahn Center for Science with a collection of cardboard watercrafts held together with masking tape and youthful innovation. Thirty-one years later, the tradition, best known as the Physics Phlotilla, continues with a new collection of Wild Boars looking to cross the pond in their boats as they learn the value of collaboration and gain a deeper understanding of the word "buoyancy."

This year's edition of the Physics Phlotilla brought out a ton of surprises, from neck-and-neck races to never-before-seen designs. Every team of third and fourth formers can certainly be commended for giving their best effort and adding to this beloved School tradition, but only three teams could walk away with top honors. As the sun shone down upon the pond and the sound of DJ Khaled's "All I Do Is Win" blasted through the airwaves, Dr. Christopher Hogue announced the names of this year's winners:

• Fastest Crossing: Paddle Bus — 1:15
  • (Brooke Freeman ‘29, Olivia Bingham ‘29, Sofia Kennedy ‘29, Will Seery ‘28)
• Most Awesome Design: The Lilipad
  • (Amira Faiz ‘29, Lilyanna Luo ‘29, Lily Safabakhsh ‘29, Leela Curry ‘29, Carolina Sandoval ’29)
• Most Innovative Design: Mama Duck and Baby Duck
  • (Nathaniel Schultz ’29, Zach Boure ’29, Kieran Freeman ’29)

Long Dr. Hogue announced the winners, the real takeaway lingered in the post-event conversations—students replaying what worked, what failed, and what they would change if they could do it over. In those moments, the exercise extends beyond the water, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and collaboration. The boats may not last, but the memories made working with friends, laughing, competing, and learning will.

Photo Credit: Joseph M. Avena is a Digital Content Producer at Choate Rosemary Hall, bringing expertise in content creation and community engagement.

Editorial Credit: Ryan Shepard '14 is the Manager of Editorial Services at Choate Rosemary Hall, bringing 10+ years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and content strategy.