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By late July, summer is in full swing, temperatures have risen past our comfort levels, and the Y is preparing for the annual duck race. Well, actually they are NOT this year after all. I had this entry all prepared for a few months only to find out that the United Way is now taking over the race – with no race actually planned for this year. In 2013, ducks will race again, but for now take this entry as a tribute to the duck race and my charge to attend when it comes back to Hastings once again!

Each year, hundreds of people purchase hundreds of ducks from to try and win a number of great prizes. Not only is this a fundraiser, but it’s also a fun way to support Hastings and spend time outdoors. Plus it’s the closest thing to legalized gambling in the state of Nebraska! Let’s face it, scratch tickets just don’t do it for me. At any rate, just like with gambling, the more ducks you buy, the better chance you have of winning one of many different prizes. And also – don’t deny it – the ducks are pretty darn cute too!

So instead of driving all the way to Iowa to relieve some gambling demons, why not use that money (plus the money you will save on gas) to support a good cause and potentially win something?! It could be a “win win” for everyone involved! And if you’re looking to “beat the heat”, you can enjoy a root beer float or have somebody push you in the pool. Just wait for the last duck to cross the finish line.

The duck race is just another way to live big in Hastings. It is a great family-friendly event or just a fun night out with friends and loved ones. I have many memories from events like this and you can too once the duck race returns to Hastings next year. Again, the Y is not hosting the duck race this summer, but it will return under The United Way in 2013 and will be better than before! I would definitely participate in the race in order to have fun and support a good cause. And who knows? Maybe you’ll take something away from the event as well – and not just a prize!

 

About the author: Josh Wooster

I was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska, where I attended Millard West High School. I chose Hastings College because it gave students personal attention, extracurricular options, and music ensembles better than those of other colleges in the state. I am currently the leader of 1-2-5, the men’s a-cappella singing ensemble, while also being a part of the Hastings College Choir and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, the men’s music fraternity. Other commitments include being an intern for the Hastings Chamber of Commerce and membership in the Student Environmental Action Coalition and Society for Collegiate Journalists. “Free time” for me involves arranging music for 1-2-5, working at the Lochland Country Club, and searching for a job. I am a jovial spirit with a diligent attitude towards work, and a keen eye for detail. I hope to stick around Hastings after college to work and give back to the city and college that have offered me so much.