CCE Tompkins County 4-H Duck Race makes triumphant return to Ithaca waters

A wave of yellow splashed down Cascadilla Creek Falls in Ithaca on Sunday, April 28, as 3,000 rubber ducks made their return to the 21st annual CCE Tompkins County 4-H Duck Race. Hitting the water after a three-year hiatus, the ducks bobbed and weaved through a scenic gorge and turbulent water in front of hundreds of community members who gathered for a day of games, refreshments, prizes, and the opportunity to purchase chances on the numbered ducks in the race.

The owner of the first-place duck took home the grand prize of $500 cash, while other top finishers won prizes that included Binghamton Rumble Ponies and Syracuse Mets prize packages, Amazon Alexas, and a season pass from Discover Cayuga Lake. All proceeds from the event go towards supporting 4-H youth programs in Tompkins County, including rural and urban afterschool programs, summer camp and school break activities, college and career prep programs, and interest-based 4-H clubs.