Annual Acadiana Duck Derby launches over 10,000 rubber ducks

BROUSSARD, La. (KLFY) – 10,000 rubber ducks were released to fight hunger at the Acadiana Duck Derby at St. Julian Park.

Brittany Bowie, the Second Harvest Chief Regional Operations Officer, explains how the derby works, “We're excited to do our annual duck derby where anyone in the community can support by purchasing a $5 duck.”

First, you buy your duck, then the ducks are released into the water for a "derby." All the proceeds go to Second Harvest Food Bank.

The Second Harvest Director Of Development Jonas Landry describes what he wants people to take away from the derby, “That sense of community. You get when disaster strikes, when people are in need, you know, when neighbors need to take care of each other. That's why I'm proud to live in Acadiana and that's why I'm proud to be in a good organization like Second Harvest Food Bank.”

Even Broussard Mayor Ray Bourque has his favorite part of the day, “When the ducks ran, I mean, that is just fun, you know, to see them being dumped out of the dump truck. And the fire department did a great job of helping us with spraying water to make sure that they get through the finish line.”

20 prizes were handed out and the grand prize of $5,000 went to Cody Smith.

Bowie shares one more piece of knowledge she wants everyone to remember, “Today I hope they walk away with that. Any amount of support, whether it's time, whether it's funds or whether it's just the word of mouth about fighting hunger, is that we all have a role in it and that everyone can support and everyone can be involved with that.”

The money raised from the Acadiana Duck Derby is enough to give out over 150,000 free meals.

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