90,000 rubber ducks race down Chicago River for charity
On 6 August, over 90,000 rubber ducks floated down the Chicago River in the annual Ducky Derby, raising funds for Special Olympics Illinois. The fundraiser has collected more than $480,000 so far.
The Chicago River hosted the annual Ducky Derby on 6 August, as crowds gathered on the Columbus Drive bridge to watch. More than 90,000 rubber ducks were tipped from a truck into the water, then carried downstream by the current. The event aimed to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois, an organisation that runs competitions for people with intellectual disabilities across the state.
After the ducks drifted, staff identified the winning duck and used fishing nets to remove the rest. Participants were able to sponsor individual ducks or groups of six, with proceeds going toward meals and medals for athletes. To date, the fundraiser has generated more than $480,000.
