Do you love ducks? Have you ever heard of the duck race? If you’re up for some quirkiness and a whole lot of heart, hold onto your feathers because we’ve got a story that’ll make you smile. Picture this: a river in Chicago, teeming not with boats, but with a deluge of more than 70,000 adorable rubber ducks! Intrigued? You should be!

Ducks take the plunge for a worthy cause

It was a splashy Thursday on the Chicago River, but instead of fish, the stars of the show were rubber ducks. This annual spectacle, known as the Ducky Derby, isn’t just a quirky visual feast; it’s a fundraiser like no other. Every year, the event rallies support for a heartwarming cause: the Special Olympics of Illinois.

Now, here’s where you come in, dear reader. For a mere $5, you could be the proud adoptive parent of a rubber duck. Yes, you read that right! Not only will you be part of this joyful jamboree, but your contribution will also go toward supporting the Special Olympics. It’s a win-win that’s cuter than a gaggle of ducklings waddling by!

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The festivities kicked off at a bright and early 10 a.m., where Pioneer Court at 401 N. Michigan Avenue transformed into a hub of family fun. Imagine a vibrant carnival atmosphere, complete with games, laughter, and a sense of community. It was a chance for families to come together and revel in the excitement.

The grand splashdown for Special Olympics Illinois

At 1 p.m., things took a drastic turn. Gathered around the Columbus Drive Bridge, spectators and participants alike witnessed a cascade of rubber ducks taking the plunge into the Chicago River. And guess what? It wasn’t just a leisurely float! These rubber duckies were on a mission, racing their buoyant hearts out toward the finish line near Michigan Avenue.

Let’s talk numbers – this isn’t just your normal racing event; it’s a mammoth fundraiser for the Special Olympics Illinois. In 2022, more than 75,000 ducks bobbed along the river’s currents in the name of this noble cause. The impact is immense, contributing significantly to the efforts of Special Olympics Illinois to provide year-round opportunities for over 21,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Adding a touch of inspiration to the event was none other than Special Olympics Illinois athlete, Josh. A gymnast with gold and bronze medals to his name, Josh proudly took up the mantle of the 2023 Duck Ambassador. His presence underscored the significance of the occasion and the transformative power of the Special Olympics.

Ready to be part of this delightful spectacle with a heartwarming twist? Here’s your chance! Visit the official website and adopt your very own rubber duck for just $5. Every duck adopted is a step towards supporting a cause that truly matters – one that changes lives and fosters inclusivity.

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As the river embraced those colorful rubber duckies, it also embraced the collective spirit of compassion and generosity. The Chicago Ducky Derby isn’t just about quirky visuals; it’s about making waves of change. So, are you ready to ride this current of kindness? Dive in, adopt a duck, and be part of something truly quacktastic!