Get ready for one of the most beloved events in Chicago tomorrow: The annual Chicago Ducky Derby.
The highly anticipated summer event, organized by Special Olympics Illinois, will feature a thrilling descent of 100,000 rubber ducks from the iconic Columbus Drive Bridge into the waters of the Chicago River at 1:00 p.m. These adorable ducks will paddle and race along the river, creating a spectacle not to be missed.
This fundraiser aims to raise critical funds and awareness for Special Olympics Illinois’s incredible athletes. Special Olympics Illinois supports an inclusive community of more than 24,000 traditional athletes, Young Athletes, peer partners, and Unified partners.
Pete Beale-DelVecchio, President & CEO, Special Olympics Illinois said:
Each duck adopted helps our mission to shape a culture where
people with and without intellectual disabilities are fully integrated into the community. We do
this by providing year-round opportunities in sports, health education, leadership and personal
development.
Each year, Special Olympics Illinois nominates and names an athlete to be the official Chicago Ducky Derby Ambassador. This year, the ambassador is Ashley Jones. With over 28 years of participation, Ashley is a highly decorated athlete, having won a gold medal at the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in gymnastics.
When will the derby take place?
The Chicago Ducky Derby will begin with a festival at 10:00 a.m. in Pioneer Court (401 N. Michigan Ave). The festival will include games, food trucks, souvenirs, photo opportunities, and music.
How can I adopt a duck for the Chicago Ducky Derby?
To participate in the race, individuals can adopt a duck starting at $10. Ducks can be adopted individually or in packages at the Chicago ducky derby website. On the day of the race, you can adopt a duck in person at Pioneer Court until 12:50 p.m. or while supplies last.
What happens if your duck wins?
Each duck represents a chance to win exciting prizes, including the grand prize of a Chevy Trax, the second prize of $2500 cash, or the third prize of a VIP Experience at Six Flags Great America.