Duck Derby Volunteers PHOTO BY JOSHUA KODIS

Everything was just ducky at Captain Hiram’s during the 12th annual Great Duck Derby to benefit Treasure Coast Community Health, as hundreds of spectators lined the shoreline in hopes that their ‘adopted’ bright yellow rubber ducks would place in the race and net them some serious bills.

Five thousand little ducks had been up for adoption during this year’s event, and nearly 4,000 lucky ducks were chosen to bob their way to shore after being launched offshore from a Sea Tow of Sebastian boat.

“The past two years have sold out and we were fully expecting the same result this year, but surmise that the hurricane set us back a few days’ worth of sales,” said Vicki Soulé, TCCH CEO.

“In addition, many outdoor public events that we attend to promote adoptions were canceled due to rain.”

Each duck was adopted for a fee of $5 or in increments up to $150 for a flock of 65. There were no lame ducks in the race, as each had the same odds of crossing the finish line. Prizes for First, Second and Third Place earned the adopter $1,500, $1,000 and $500, respectively.

Prior to the main race, about 50 corporate ducks did a duck dive off the boat and floated to shore.

Each had been purchased for $100 before being creatively feathered and bedazzled by their sponsors. Bragging rights alone were given to the winners: First Place to Fully Promoted Vero Beach, Second Place to Royal Palm Jewel and Third Place to the Lemon Tree.

Additionally, Soulé said that members of the Vero Beach Art Club had artistically decorated an assortment of ducks that were sold during a silent auction held the first week of November, following the Nov. 1 Gallery Stroll, with proceeds benefiting TCCH.

“All proceeds from the derby will be used for women and children that come to TCCH that may have no insurance or a very high deductible.”

TCCH has provided healthcare to children and adults in Indian River County for 31 years and, while services are provided here, people from other counties are also treated.

In 2023 TCCH experienced 126,048 medical visits, including medical, dental, behavioral and mental health, and vision, and more than 40,000 prescriptions were filled by their in-house pharmacy.

In addition to the 350 TCCH team members at eight facilities, there are 25 employees who provide 24-hour health services at the county jail and TCCH collaborates with 30 community partners.

“We are getting ready to put mobile units on the road a couple of times a week. We’ll also have a dental unit that will be taking care of jail patients starting in January,” said Soulé.

“I want to extend my thanks to all the sponsors, businesses and individuals who supported our Duck Derby this year. Proceeds benefit financially insecure families who are not able to afford healthcare. Children receive glasses, wellness exams and mental health support, and women receive breast care through these wonderful donations and gifts.”

Following the race, the good times continued as folks enjoyed quacking open a cold one and grabbing a quack snack while swaying and waddling to the live music.

For more information, visit TCCHINC.org.

Photos by Joshua Kodis