News

In Naperville, time to get your ducks in a row

Posted May 06, 2010 11:00 pm

By Melissa Jenco

Move over rabbits, one of Naperville's most popular spring traditions is all about the ducks.

The 21st annual Duck Race begins at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 8, when several thousand plastic ducks will be launched into the DuPage River at Rotary Hill.

The event is co-sponsored by the Naperville Park District and Responsible Educated Adolescents Can Help, a group dedicated to encouraging teens to be drug- and alcohol-free. The race is the primary fundraiser for REACH.

"It's a wonderful way to support a program that supports kids doing the right things and making really good choices in their lives, and we are proud to continue to support them and develop leadership and governance skills," said Stephanie Schiszik, chief executive officer of the Camp Fire USA Illinois Prairie Council, which sponsors REACH.

Camp Fire is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.

Saturday's race will go from Rotary Hill to the Eagle Street Bridge, where hundreds of spectators will be cheering for their favorite fowl.

"I've watched it eight or nine years and I giggle every time they put those in the water," Schiszik said.

Each duck will need a sponsor before waddling through the waves. Backing a beak costs $5 and can be done in advance through the park district or on race day.

First prize is $250 and second prize is $100. Local businesses also have donated prizes.

To get warmed up for the race, there will be a table carnival beginning at 10 a.m. along the Riverwalk that features games, a bean bag toss, balloons and live entertainment.

"It's a really nice family day, which is something Camp Fire has always endorsed," Schiszik said, "to do things as families and enjoy a nice day along the river and have some fun."

In the event of rain, the race will be rescheduled to May 15.

Several thousand plastic ducks will be dumped into the DuPage River Saturday during the 21st Annual Duck Race sponsored by the Naperville Park District and Responsible Educated Adolescents Can Help. Sponsoring a duck costs $5. Daily Herald file photo

If you go

What: 21st annual Duck Race

When: 1 p.m. Saturday, May 8; carnival begins at 10 a.m.

Where: Rotary Hill along Naperville's Riverwalk

Tickets: $5 to sponsor a duck

Info: (630) 848-5000

Article Comments

Article Categories
Communities Counties DuPage County Naperville News Will County

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.