The Neponset Valley Sunrise Rotary Club hosted its 10th annual Duck Race at Riverdal Park Saturday afternoon. The event was successful in raising money for both local and national charities. Duck Race go-ers were able to purchase or “adopt” a duck which would later be thrown into the Charles River alongside the park. The plastic ducks were then carried by the current, as if they were racing. So far this year leads in number of ducks sold at the event. As with all races the first duck across the finish line was declared the winner. 

The event also included a DJ who played many family favorites like the “Cotton Eyed Joe” and the “Chicken Dance;” as well as performances by the Dedham School of Music. All was accompanied by free food, face painting and pony rides, all of which were the kind donations of local Dedham business.

“We are always so excited to see so many people participating in donating their time to this event,” says Lisa Rubini, who will take over as president of the Rotary Club on July 1. “It really brings the community together.” 

Children were immediately drawn to the pony rides, the line was by far the longest. One of the more interesting draws, however, was the instrument petting zoo, provided by the Dedham School of Music.

“The kids are having a ball getting up close to the instruments,” said Rubini.

The performers set up their band instruments so that everyone (parents included) could get a closer look. All these activities kept kids and parents alike entertained as they waited for the race to begin.