The South Cariboo Chamber of Commerce’s Duck Race was more of a marathon than a sprint last weekend.
Some 1,000 ducks were dumped into the water of Bridge Creek by 100 Mile House Wranglers, cheered on by a crowd of 50. While a headwind briefly sent the ducks floating up the creek, they needed the aid of Wrangler’s president Greg Aiken, who waded into the creek to push the ducks along.
“It went well. Unfortunately, there wasn’t much water in the creek but the ducks were able to get (to the finish), which was great,” said acting chamber manager Donna Barnett. “Everyone had a great time and everyone was so excited. I can’t believe people were videoing the duck race.”
It took about half an hour when duck number 105 crossed the finish line, followed by 16 and 5707. The winning ducks - who could be bought by individuals for $5 each - won $500 for Suncor Niknazan, $200 for Don Urquhart and $100 for Karen Smith.
The event, which was sold out, raised $5,000, of which $4,000 will be split between the chamber and the Wranglers.
Barnett said she and the Wranglers are considering holding the event next year, although preferably in the summer when the creek is running higher.
“We need more positive events to happen. As a chamber, we’re looking at all kinds of avenues to see what we can do to work in partnership with other organizations,” Barnett said. “Our community will not be vibrant if we don’t all work together.”
patrick.davies@100milefreepress.net
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