It was another fun-filled day at the races.
It was another fun-filled day at the races.
Saturday, March 30, started out a little brisk and the tide was high, but the 700 rubber ducks in the 17th Annual Rubber Ducky Derby faired well. The community event benefits local children’s theater company Kids at Play, which has just finished its 20th season.
The first race, the Corporate Ducks, began at high noon. Local businesses and one family group purchased these ducks. This year’s Corporate winner was the Ferguson Family. They were a last minute entry the morning of the race. Besides bragging rights, their name will be placed on the perpetual trophy, which they are proudly displaying at the Pancake Cottage till next year’s race.
Other corporate ducks were: Catalina Yamaha, Parisi Builders, Seacrest Inn, Catalina Coffee and Cookie Co., Catalina Express, Descanso Beach Ocean Sports, Hotel Metropole, Touch of Heaven, Zeller Construction, Catalina Art Association, Original Jacks, Island Rentals, and Lloyd’s of Avalon.
Immediately following the corporate race was the individual heats which had near 700 ducks. The top honor went to Auroura Brannock, second place went to Mary Scheckling who also has emceed the event since its inception and was really “quacking” herself up this year. Third place went to Claudia Canby.
The water support for the event was provided by the Avalon Harbor Department, Joe’s Rent a Boat donated a boat and some kayaks, the Bergstedt Brothers, Daniel and PJ, manned the race lanes and Chef Greg, Jim and Nathan Parrish released the ducks.
Kids at Play Players and parents helped run the entire event. This year, everyone was missing Keppel’s Kitchen but the city of Avalon is going through discussions with County Health about food at festivals and fundraiser. They are a huge part of the tradition and the derby organizers said they can’t wait to see them back next year.
