Organised by Rachel Hayward of Ask the Chameleon in memory of her late father, the Trent Duck Race certainly made a splash on the River Trent – raising funds for a new boat shed at Trent Rowing Club and bringing the local business community together for a memorable day.
The event proved a resounding success, attracting over 200 attendees and VIP guests including Jacob Collier MP, Mayor Kim Smith BEM and Olympic boxing medallist Frazer Clarke. There was strong support from the regional business community, with many Marketing Derby Bondholders taking part, including Smith Partnership, Nimbus Disability, Timms Solicitors, Vibrant Accountancy, Gravit Digital, Midland Lead and Dains Accountants.
More than 280 ducks took to the water – including 21 large corporate ducks, each uniquely designed by their sponsors – creating a colourful and competitive race. Cosy Direct claimed first place, followed by TJ Parry Funeral Directors in second and The Dial Restaurant in third.
The day exceeded expectations, raising £32,130 and surpassing the original £30,000 Crowdfunder target. This helped unlock match funding and move Trent Rowing Club closer to its plans for expanded facilities and greater community access.
