More than 7,000 rubber ducks floated down the Coldwater River on Saturday during an event that raised more than $35,000 for the Coldwater Lions Club.
The Coldwater Duck Race, established in 2008, is a "great community event," says co-chair Ken Cadeau.
"It's a big deal," he said. "We've been able to have it each year because of the involvement of the community."
The event drew a crowd despite the rain.
"It's something people look forward to all year long," Cadeau said. "The kids are all around the river just watching all these little ducks sail on down the river."
There were 54 prizes up for grabs for those who purchased a duck for $5. The top prize was $3,000 with 49 other monetary prizes ranging from $1,450 to $200. Secondary prizes included passes to Mount St. Louis Moonstone and gift certificates to the Coldwater Pharmacy.
"It's like a horse race," Cadeau said with a chuckle. "People are screaming, horns are going off, and the kids are all planted on the other side of the bank."
All money raised through the event benefits local minor sports organizations and community events. It's the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Coldwater Lions Club.
"It's really a community effort," Cadeau said. "We couldn't do it without volunteers selling tickets, the stores selling tickets, and everybody spreading the word."
He says the race brings visitors to Coldwater, which helps the local economy.
"In the past, some of our stores have sold out of food," he said. "It's a great day."
While the event is a "lot of work" for organizers and volunteers, Cadeau says it's well worth it on race day.
"A natural resource is making our community money," he said. "I'm pretty proud of that."
The event has become a community tradition that has put Coldwater on the map, and Cadeau expects it to continue for generations to come.
"It's an event where you meet people," he said. "There are games for the kids and it's good family time on the closed-off main street."