Waddle it be? Duck Race delivers family fun, raises over $185K for charity
AUDRA SCHAAFSMA
On Saturday, May 30, a sea of yellow filled the Wando River as 30,000 rubber ducks raced toward the finish line during the 19th Annual Charleston Charity Duck Race.
This beloved Lowcountry tradition helped raise over $185,000 for local and international charities while bringing families and community members together for a day of festivities at Daniel Island Waterfront Park.
Hosted by 10 Lowcountry Rotary Clubs, including the Rotary Club of Daniel Island, the event featured food vendors, games, music, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.
The grand prize of $10,000 went to Daniel Island Club employee Avery Reed, whose duck
conquered all and crossed the finish line first in a tight race. Chris Thompson’s duck came in a close second, earning a $5,000 prize.
Four other lucky ducks were quick to cross the finish line, earning their owners Kirsten Griffin, Billy Swails, Mark Smith (who donated his winnings back), MarineMax, and Jennifer Olmstead $1,000 each.
Since its founding in 2007, the Charleston Charity Duck Race has raised more than $2.5 million to support charitable organizations throughout the Lowcountry and continues to be one of Charleston’s most anticipated and entertaining events.