Polson Park was the scene of a riveting race down Vernon Creek Saturday when 4,000 rubber ducks hit the water to raise funds for a service dog to be given to an autistic child.
The Vernon Lions Club's fourth annual duck race took place June 22, when volunteers released the rubber ducks — purchased for $5 each by members of the public — into the creek, with the first three ducks to cross the finish line downstream winning a cash prize for those who purchased them, as well as the "lame duck" prize for the person whose duck crossed the finish line last.
Sharon Cain, past president of the Vernon Lions Club, said the event raised more than $22,000 for BC & Alberta Guide Dogs. The funds will go towards providing an autism service dog to one person in the community.
According to BC & Alberta Guide Dogs — which is set to bring another dog to Vernon this summer — it costs up to $35,000 to train and deliver one autism service dog. Cain said the funds from the duck race will be subsidized so that one service dog can be provided.
"It was wonderful," Cain said of the event, which took place in sunny but not-too-hot temperatures.
During the race, Vernon Creek was lined with spectators — people who purchased ducks and therefore had skin in the game, and those who simply wanted to watch an exciting race to the finish line.
The person whose duck crossed the finish line first took home a $1,000 prize. Second place received $500, third place got $250 and the winner of the "lame duck prize was awarded $100.
The race was preceded by some games for kids in the park, and a barbecue was provided by the Lumby Lions Club.
Cain thanked the event sponsors and everyone who purchased ducks this year.
"We wouldn't be able to do it without them."
