The date is fast approaching when the Soque River at Pitts Park will again play host to hundreds of yellow rubber ducks swimming for cash. The 11th annual VFL Duck Race will be held during Clarkesville’s Mountain Laurel Festival on Saturday, May 21. Entrants have a chance to win cash prizes of $1,000, $500, or $250.
Proceeds from the ticket sales will go to benefit the many literacy programs VFL sponsors in Habersham County.
Organizers say they’re on track to race around 2,000 ducks this year, about the same as in years past, but they’d like to surpass that. They’ve been selling tickets during parent pickup at elementary schools and at various stores throughout Clarkesville.
“Ticket sales are going well, especially with the price of gas and other inflationary items people are dealing with,” says VFL Executive Director Phylecia Wilson.
Tickets to race are $5 each or 5 for $20. They may be purchased at the libraries in Cornelia and Clarkesville. Tickets may also be purchased online at vflhabersham.com.
Dec-a-Duck
Sponsorships are a big part of VFL’s fundraising: This year, the agency picked up $10,000 in donations from partnering businesses, organizations, and individuals. Sponsors are automatically entered into VFL’s Dec-a-Duck contest, in which they decorate large yellow rubber ducks that are judged and voted on, securing bragging rights and trophies for some lucky ducks.
This year there are around 31 Dec-a-Ducks. Three judges will decide on the Most Creative, Best All-Around, Best Business Themed Duck, Best Children’s Fairy Tale/Book/Movie Themed Duck and Best Novice entry (1st-time entrants). Members of the public get to decide which entry is awarded People’s Choice.
To vote, simply visit the VFL Facebook page or visit the VFL Duck Race booth on the Clarkesville Square Saturday during the Mountain Laurel Festival.
The race begins at 3:45 pm at the Highway 197 bridge at Pitts Park in Clarkesville. Winners will be announced from the Pitts Park stage at 4 p.m. on race day. You do not have to be present to win.
Contributions to VFL are tax deductible.
