SHELBY – A record 1,503 rubber ducks fell by the tub-full into the Black Fork River, racing to a finish line at the bottom of the Parrot Head Pub’s patio.
Charles and Kate Curren sold the ducks to hundreds of benefactors, proceeds going to the Ronald McDonald House.
Back in 2019, the Currens lost their son, Hudson, after struggling with several medical conditions in his shortened life. The Ronald McDonald House was there to house and feed the couple during Hudson’s struggle.
The Duck Drop is their way of giving back.
Over the last few years the Shelby community has joined the Currens in a celebration of Hudson’s life. On Saturday participants enjoyed live music on the Parrot Head Pub’s patio from The Jones Clones and Jake, donated to a silent auction inside and sponsored their own troop of racing rubber ducks.
The Currens sold more than 1,100 rubber ducks in 2025, a record at the time after selling approximately 1,000 in 2024. That record was smashed, with about 400 more ducks sold and raced this year.
Proceeds also come from a 50/50 raffle, a silent raffle, kids’ games, separate donations and more.
The Currens hope to continue breaking their own records in Hudson’s name, with surprises to come in 2027, Charles Curren said.
Photos from Hudson’s Duck Drop 2026. Credit: Logan Adams.
