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90,000 rubber ducks race in Chicago River for Special Olympics fundraiser

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 6, 2026, 7:58 PM

Last updated Aug 6, 2026

90,000 rubber ducks race in Chicago River for Special Olympics fundraiser

Summary

On August 6, 2026, 90,000 rubber ducks were released into the Chicago River during the annual Ducky Derby fundraiser organized by Special Olympics Illinois. The event, held on the Columbus Drive bridge, saw the ducks float for approximately 15 minutes before a winner was determined. Becky Cavanagh, a Special Olympics athlete, served as the Ducky Derby ambassador and celebrated the joy of making new friends through the competition. The event has successfully raised over $480,000 to support athletes with disabilities. Sponsorships for the ducks help fund meals and provide gold medals for teams.

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By the Numbers

•The event drew thousands of participants to the Chicago River.
•The sponsor of the fastest duck wins an SUV.
•Sponsorship costs $10 for one duck and $30 for six.
•The competition has raised more than $480,000 overall.
•Becky Cavanagh emphasized friendship as a key aspect of the Olympics.

Latest Updates

7:58 PMYahoo Sports — Rubber ducks by the thousands splash into Chicago River for annual Special Olympics fundraiser

What they're saying

"
A deluge of 90,000 rubber ducks poured out of a truck on the Columbus Drive bridge and plunged into the Chicago River on Thursday, and then raced at a leisurely pace in the annual Chicago Ducky Derby. Cavanagh said her favorite part about the Special Olympics was “making new friends.” Special Olympics Illinois organizes competitions across the state for people with disabilities and special needs.
— Yahoo Sportsby CYBELE MAYES-OSTERMAN

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