Alfalfa's boat is shown to be powered by ducks chasing feed that is scooped into the water by a rotating contraption that is operated by Buckwheat turning a handle. During the boat race Buckwheat is turning the handle but the rotating scoop contraption is not moving.
When Waldo's boat starts sinking, Alfalfa swims out to save her. Upon reaching her, he stands up in the water which turns out to be only a foot deep.