The Royal LePage East Kootenay Realty Food Bank Duck Race was another resounding success this year, with all 4,000 ducks selling out, raising $20,000 and the barbecue raising another $2300.
Winners were 1, Lauren Moore, 2, Matt Wilkins, 3, Cheryl Chynoweth and 4, Brad Murphy.
Rather than the high water problems of a few recent years, where ducks could not be put in the creek for safety reasons, this year’s race got off to a rather slow start due the water flow being so low.
“It was very slow,” said race organizer Marilyn Jolie. “It was very hard to get them down the creek. The first duck didn’t come for 20 minutes and then we had to wait and wait for the second one.”
A faithful crew of Duck Race regulars were in the creek at the Civic Centre finish line — no need for wet suits this year as the water is already quite warm. Those volunteers are Harvey Jolie, Tony and Jordan Harris, Ruth Heath, Darren Close and Peter Munro.
“I really want to thank Ben Jolie, Chris Goodwin and Terry Oscarson,” Jolie said. “They walked the creek for almost four hours. It was a huge job trying to get all the ducks out.”
Jolie also wants to thank Ray Creasy, who has volunteered his time to drive the city loader for all 11 duck races, Ray’s Music for providing entertainment, Mayor Don McCormick for once again providing MC services and all the other volunteers.
“For the barbecue we used the Rotary trailer, but this year it came with three volunteers — Sally, Sandra and Helga — thanks for that. Audrey Welk headed up the barbecue and cooks Wayne and Jim did a great job. Dena Meier and her nurse friends made 200 duck cookies, which all sold as well. I’d like to mention Jane and Malcolm Fruin, who are the keepers of the ducks. They were out Friday morning, sorting them all for next year.”
Jolie says that one thing all the volunteers tell her is that despite the hard work, it’s a great time for a great cause.
“We work hard but we all come away with positive comments and feeling happy to help such a great cause. It was exciting and we’re all exhausted.”
