Community support, family fun and 3000 ducks are making their way to Sooke River.
One of Sooke’s most exciting and iconic fundraisers of the year is nearly here, as the Sooke Harbourside Lions return for the 17th edition of their annual Duck Day event.
“This free event has fun activities, games, books and of course the iconic rubber duck race,” said Alisa Wright, marketing chair for the Sooke Harbour Side Lions.
The flock of 3,000 rubber ducks will paddle their way down the river, with a range of prizes ranging from $100 to $1000 on the line for ducks finishing within the top 5.
Attendees can purchase ducks ($5 each or $20 for a 5-pack) and corresponding raffle tickets at the event to enter the race. Ducks can also be purchased now and until the event at Castle Liquor, Western Foods and Home Hardware in Sooke. Organizers encourage interested duck racers to get theirs soon as they tend to sell out fast.
“We have folks who attended as children who are now bringing their kids,” Wright told Sooke News Mirror last year.
“It’s a hugely popular event that attracts people of all ages. We hear so many stories about how much fun it is, how people have been affected and touched, and how they interacted with the event.”
This year, Duck Day will introduce a mallard race for Sooke businesses alongside the usual rubber duck race.
"The decorated mallards will have a race of their own, and the winner will receive a trophy and enjoy the bragging rights," Wright said.
Funds raised through raffle tickets and other donations at this event will be reinvested into the Sooke community, supporting many initiatives, including Sooke Food Bank, Christmas Food Hampers, Sooke Loan Cupboard, Sooke Meals on Wheels, student Bursaries and more.
The event is on May 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sooke River Campground.
