Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mid-Columbia Duck Race?
The Mid-Columbia Duck Race is a fundraising event for the six Rotary clubs of the Tri-Cities which includes the Rotary clubs of Columbia Center, Columbia Valley Daybreak, Pasco-Kennewick, Tri-Cities Sunrise, Richland Riverside, and Richland.
Where is the Mid-Columbia Duck Race?
The race is located on the Columbia River at the Lampson pit area of Columbia Park in Kennewick. This is located near the blue bridge, playground of dreams, and the bandshell.
When is the Mid-Columbia Duck Race?
The race is each year on a Saturday designated in October. Please see our home page for this year date.
How does the Mid-Columbia Duck Race work?
On event day, rubber ducks are numbered to match the number on each ticket. They are then placed in a large container and lifted over the Columbia River by a large Lampson crane. The start of the race is started off by the Lampson crane releasing the 40,000 ducks into the river. The first duck to cross the finish line wins the highest valued prize, a 2011 Toyota Camry donated by Toyota or Tri-Cities. Prizes are then awarded in decending value as each duck crosses the finish line until all prizes are awarded.
View the video below from a previous duck race.
What is planned on event day?
On event day from 10am-2pm events will include childrens games, food venders, music, charity booths, and the second annual RV pull for charity. There will also be door prizes drawn throughout the day. "Goody bags" will be given to the first 250 kids which include free merchandise and coupons from local merchants. The race begins at noon.
Do I receive the rubber duck after the race?
No, ducks are inventoried and returned to Game, Inc.
Where do the proceeds go?
When the race is over, each club will receive a split of the fundraiser. Each club then chooses which charities they would like to support. This may change from year to year as the clubs add new charities to their list. For a sample of where the money goes, please visit the "How Rotary Helps" link. This is just a small sample of how each Rotary club helps.
What are the rules for the Mid-Columbia Duck Race?
Please visit the rules page.
How will I know if I won?
There are a few ways to find out if you won. The best is to be present. The winners will also be announced on this website as well as in the Tri-City Herald. A letter will also be sent to all winners with instructions on how to claim their prize.
How do I claim my prize?
After the race, you will receive a letter in the mail on how to claim your prize.
Who sponsors the Mid-Columbia Duck Race?
Please visit our sponsor page.
How can I join Rotary?
To join Rotary, you must be sponsored by a current Rotarian. To visit a club or to learn more, visit our Find a Rotary page.