Heron Stream Duck Races 2022

Once again, Rotary in Wendover & District were blessed with lovely weather for their third duck Race on the Heron stream. The two previous Duck Races were held under Covid restrictions but this time punters were encouraged to come and watch, cautiously as the barrier between the Heron path and stream is above the height of little children. The fund raising was in aid of Wendover Dementia Support and Chiltern Foodbank as well as other Rotary supported charities.

The hot, dry summer of 2022 meant that the stream was less full than in the past so the current carrying the ducks was even slower than in previous years. The number of ducks was higher for both races which increased the excitement. Beautiful autumn sunshine was the perfect accompaniment for this event but refreshments were also on offer and a raffle to add to the jeopardy. Judges plucked first, second and third from the water. Many thanks to friends of Rotary in Wendover who helped in the water and on dry land!

Classic Duck Race

Tickets for the Classic Duck Race cost £2 a duck and the majority of followers were families with young children. It was wonderful to hear the youngsters chanting their numbers to remember them and cheer on their duck as it passed by or reached the finishing line. Duck 79’s “owner” generously asked for a redraw so at the Rotary meeting on Wednesday 19 October did that. The results are therefore:

Congratulations to everyone who took part.

Business Duck Race

After the Classic Ducks had all been collected in anticipation of next year’s race, the Business Race could begin. Local Businesses and Rotary friends were able to buy a larger duck for £15. They could choose to decorate their duck, too. Business Ducks bought last year, could re-enter their duck for a discount £10 this year and so it will continue. Over 35 Business Ducks took part this year. The winners were:

How strange that all this year’s winners had made their original investment last year! Don’t forget to race again next year!

Raffle

The Raffle ticket purchasers left contact details. Prizes were won by:

Thank you

Thank you to Wendover Parish Council for permission to use the Heron Stream for the duck races again this year. Many thanks to anyone who purchased a duck, bought a raffle ticket or a cake. Many thanks to the Hand Made Cake Company which provided the cakes. They seemed to satisfy the watchers of the races. Especial thanks to passers by who just gave a donation and Rotary friends who helped in many ways to ensure that everyone had a fun time.

Total

Over £1000 was raised on the day to be divided between Wendover Dementia Support and Chiltern Foodbank as well as other Rotary supported charities.