MOUNT GREENWOOD — An upcoming race at Mount Greenwood Park isn't fueled by gasoline or Gatorade. Rather, the Rubber Duckie Derby is powered by goodwill and water.
The sixth annual fundraiser takes place from 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Sept. 19 in the park at 3724 W. 111th St. in Mount Greenwood.
The race raises money for Special Olympics Chicago. Nearly 200 Special Olympics athletes use Mount Greenwood Park to train for upcoming events, according to a spokeswoman for the derby.
Those interested in supporting Special Olympics can buy a rubber duck for $5. The buoyant bath toys will then "race" down a water-filled course at the park. The family with the winning duck will receive a $500 Apple gift card.
Besides the race, the event will feature a number of family-friendly activities, including face painting, an inflatable ninja castle and carnival games. A petting zoo from Nature’s Creatures Animal Show as well as a magician will also be at the derby.
Food will be sold by Fat Tommy’s in Mount Greenwood. All proceeds from food sales will be donated to Special Olympics Chicago which boasts more than 5,000 athletes throughout the area.
“Special Olympics Chicago changes the lives of individuals with disabilities and makes the world a better place," said Dr. Casey Hogan, owner of presenting sponsor Advanced Eye Care Professionals and president of Special Olympics Chicago.
Rubber ducks can be bought until noon at the event or before Sept. 17 at:
• Marie’s Café and Catering at 3660 W. 111th St. in Mount Greenwood
• Advanced Eye Care Professionals at 10320 S. Cicero Ave. in Oak Lawn
• Niko’s Breakfast Club at 4002 W. 111th St. in Oak Lawn
• Flapjack’s at 4710 W. 95th St. in Oak Lawn
Ducks may also be bought by visiting www.sochicago.org. For more information, call 708-229-2200.
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