Rubber Duck Derby

Possibly one of the quirkiest – or should that be quackiest - events on Bermuda’s social calendar is the annual rubber duck race in St. George’s.

This was the eighth year of the Derby, run to raise funds for local hospice Agape House. Members of the crowd adopt the yellow plastic ducks for a small fee, whereupon they’re gathered together then tipped into the waters of St. George’s harbour just upstream from the bridge connecting the town square to Ordnance Island. In a barely more sophisticated version of pooh-sticks, the first ducks to cross the finish line on the far side of the bridge win their sponsors a prize.

A number of canoeists were on hand to corral the competitors and stop any escaping. The ducks didn’t seem to appreciate this nannying, however, preferring to stay huddled together alongside Ordnance Island. One defiantly sank. Hamilton Town Crier Ed Christopher provided a great running commentary, combining a manic horse-racing style with more duck gags than you could shake a tail feather at.

There were five races throughout the afternoon – two Corporate (all ducks sponsored by local companies), a youth race ($5 per duck, small prizes), the ‘pamper me’ race ($10 per duck, better prizes) and the family race ($20 per duck, but the best prizes). Top prize was a round trip to the UK on British Airways for four people – worth around $4000. For a split second, I thought I’d got it when the MC announced the winner as “Phillip…”. My heart skipped a beat. But the surname wasn’t mine.

I may not have won a prize, but I took enough pictures to ensure I didn’t come home completely empty-handed.

Comments

[Robina on 07.06.04 at 11:51]

Thank you Phil for the photos and commentary. Knew I could rely on you! My friend Sue saw Mandy get dunked but didn't have chance to introduce herself. Hope the event was a great success and loads of money was raised for this worthwhile cause.

Robina. The Limey in NH.

[Sue on 07.06.04 at 13:55]

The weather was spectacular for the Rubber Ducky Derby.....and once again I was thrilled to have witnessed this genuinely fun event! My name wasn't called either, Phil, but I received the best prize of all.....a perfect day with great friends....and a great cause!!! Our Duck, Hopalong Quacker didn't win, but we did retrieve him and make a little girl very happy when she received it! The smile alone was priceless!

Sue

[Lizardfish on 08.06.04 at 13:46]

What a waste of plastic... :-(

Stroppy. x

[Bill Akin on 08.06.04 at 15:13]

Dear Liz,
Not if you use them again next year or recyle them into a childs smile.
Regards, Bill

[martinjh on 17.10.05 at 16:07]

Thre derby looks like fun. I would like to go with my nephews next year please send info. we live in california.

[george ellias on 22.03.06 at 21:39]

dear sir, when is the annual duck race in st. georges harbour? i visit st. george every year and think ive found paradise. ive taken a second job to be able to come each year for two weeks holiday. i'd love to live in st. george but cant afford anything there especially since im not a bermudian. its sad to love a place u cant live in but i guess thats life. thanks so much.
George

[Phil on 22.03.06 at 21:53]

Hi George

The rubber duck derby is always held at the beginning of June. This year's event will be on Sunday 4 June.