SHELBY — A rubber duck race raised nearly $11,000 for charity last summer.
In its second year, Hudson’s Duck Drop raised $10,750 for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio by dropping 870 ducks from Shelby’s Main Street bridge on July 20, 2024.
Organized by Charlie and Kate Curren, the fundraiser is done in memory of their late son, Hudson Curren.
Born on July 24, 2018, Hudson Curren was diagnosed in May 2019 with a mitochondrial disease known as Alpers — a mutation of the POLG gene, which drastically decreases the amount of energy the body’s cells can produce.
He had many stays at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus. The Ronald McDonald House of Central Ohio offered his family the ability to stay nearby. Hudson Curren passed away just after his first birthday, but his legacy continues through this event.
This year marks the third annual Hudson’s Duck Drop, which is set for July 26 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Parrot Head Pub in Shelby, 16 Mohican St.
The highlight of the event is the duck race, where hundreds of rubber ducks are dropped from the Main Street bridge into the Black Fork River to race to the finish line at the Parrot Head Pub patio.
Nearly 900 ducks were dumped into the river last year. This year’s goal is 1,000-plus.
How does Hudson’s Duck Drop work?
Hudson’s Duck Drop is an opportunity for his legacy to continue through support to other families staying at the Ronald McDonald House.
Proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio.
The family-friendly event also features live music, a food truck, games for kids, prizes, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle and more. Ducks for the race can be “adopted” for a $10 donation.
SEE PHOTOS FROM LAST YEAR’S EVENT
Ducks are numbered for the race down the river. Prizes will be awarded for the first three ducks to cross the finish line, as well as the last duck to cross. Sponsors do not need to be present to win.
Duck sponsorships can be purchased online or in-person at Parrot Head Pub.
Additional ways to support the event exist beyond duck sponsorships. Donations are welcomed for the silent auction and volunteer opportunities are available.
Click here to learn more about the event.
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