In a heartbeat, the water became a flashing torrent of yellow; crammed from shore to shore with tiny yellow ducks, teeming and jockeying for the coveted position of “first”. Swimming like sharks; falling like lemmings over the rocky crags; tumbling headlong over the waterfall… And from the grassy shores, the children cheered.
photo by Serenity Starbright
WHAT could this monstrosity be?! None other than The Greenville Evening Rotary Club’s very own Reedy River Duck Derby!
All morning, Falls Park was filled with entertainment such as the Ducky Doggie Parade, the Secret Cirkus Hoop Jam, Our World Festival’s drumming & dancing, and more! There were face painters, balloon artists, and a whole avenue of tents for families to explore with food, art, and information.
photo by Serenity Starbright
At 2:30, the race was officially ON! The rubber ducks, each sponsored by the generous donations of the onlookers, were released in one fell swoop! – And… then… proceeded to meander lazily into the current. Apparently no one told them it was a race. Or maybe someone happened to mention the whole waterfall thing…
After a magnificent display of nearly 7000 ducks tumbling over the falls, this years winner turned out to be a singularly peerless specimen of anatine prowess owned by Lucy DeCristifaro. Her prize was one year of free groceries sponsored by Publix! Not too shabby!! There were actually FORTY different prizes awarded, thanks to the amazing contributions of the sponsors. 
For 8 years running, the Evening Rotary Club has run the Derby as a way to benefit local charities, including Greenville Area Interfaith Hospitality Network (GAIHN) and Mauldin Miracle League (MML). The next race is already planned and will be held on May 4th, 2013. Put it on your calendar; it’s an absolutely wonderful day for families and ducks alike!
Think or Thwim!
TimTv
Next Week: Adventures at Greer’s Dutch Barn
~ and BOVINOVA; the mother of all cookouts!
