The Terrace Rotary Club’s 2023 Wild Duck Race is now history, with residents flocking to participate in the annual event that marked the highlight of this year’s Riverboat Days celebrations.
On Aug. 7, the Skeena River was awash with excitement as thousands of numbered rubber duckies were released from the sky, using a helicopter, between the city’s two main bridges. Residents eagerly purchased all 3,500 tickets, each corresponding to a numbered duck, with a chance to win large prizes based on which duck floated down the river the fastest.
This year’s grand prize winner, Colin Mohr, claimed the $25,000 prize as his rubber duck was the first to cross the finish line at the New Skeena Bridge. According to a press release from the Terrace Rotary Club, Mohr hurried to Ferry Island to accept the prize money from Terrace Rotary Club President Chad Sallenback.
Mohr was not the only winner on the day.
The second and third place prizes were awarded to Brenda DeJong and Sonny Dickens, respectively. Both DeJong and Dickens will enjoy thrilling helicopter rides courtesy of Canadian Helicopters.
READ MORE: 2023 Terrace Riverboat Days soccer tournament makes triumphant return
Other significant prizes included a $500 Safeway gift card for Diana Falardeau who’s duckie finished fourth, and a $500 Canadian Tire gift card for Virginia Russell, the fifth-place winner.
The popular race serves as more than just a community spectacle.
The Terrace Rotary Club uses the proceeds to fund valuable local projects and organizations. With all tickets sold, this year’s race generated approximately $39,000 in revenue, which will be placed into a fund contributing to various gaming-eligible groups.
In expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support, the Terrace Rotary Club extended special thanks to all the sponsors who donated prizes, as well as Emil Anderson Maintenance for their efforts in controlling Highway 16 traffic on the New Skeena Bridge during the race.
“Most of all, we want to thank everyone who purchased a ticket this year,” the Club stated in their press release, appreciating the community’s continued support and participation.
The Terrace Rotary Club’s Wild Duck Race has indeed become a cherished tradition, reflecting the community’s spirit and commitment to collaboration. The success of this year’s event promises an even bigger splash in the years to come.
Viktor Elias joined the Terrace Standard in April 2023.
Tips or story ideas? (250) 638-7283 ext. 5411 or viktor.elias@terracestandard.com.
Like the Terrace Standard on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
