Ducks selling fast for cancer fundraiser

Rubber ducks being sold for the 2014 PIC Duck Race are selling like hotcakes, with supporters not only hailing from on-island but from off-island as well, according to race director Glenn Policare.

“The support has been overwhelming. We have sold ducks to San Salvador, Japan, Korea, Russia, the Netherlands and all over the U.S. like California, Texas, Pennsylvania, Montana, New Jersey, Iowa, Indiana, Oregon, and Maine, just to name a few,” he said.

As always, cash prizes are awarded to the top finishers but Policare said Pacific Islands Club Saipan is taking it to the next level this year. In commemoration of its 25th anniversary, PIC Saipan has pledged to give $2,500 in cash to the first duck to cross the finish line. Cash prizes will be awarded to the second, third, and fourth place ducks as well.

To thank those who support this annual event, PIC Saipan would be awarding $250 cash and a PIC Room Stay Package to the owner of the 25th duck that crosses the finish line.

The 2014 PIC Duck Race is scheduled on Feb. 8 at the San Antonio landmark’s Lazy River.

Proceeds will be donated once more to the Commonwealth Cancer Association. All in all, PIC Saipan has donated more than $30,000 to CCA since the race’s inception. CCA uses the funds to help those fighting cancer here in the CNMI and to help raise awareness so future generations can live cancer-free.

In addition to the rubber duck race, PIC will also be hosting The Race Around the River, also known as the Human Duck Race. A total of 24 swimmers will swim one lap around the PIC Lazy River. Outfitted with beak, caps, fins, and lifejackets, the participants will be vying for bragging rights and a great team building award as well.

“So far, we have Triple J Motors, KKMP, Marpac, The Saipan Swim Club, IT&E, Saipan Water and Ice, the Law Office of Robert Torres, and Island Apparel all hosting Human Ducks. With more and more companies showing interest in the Human Duck Race, we will certainly fill all 24 slots,” said Policare.

PIC Saipan staff and management would be at the Garapan Street Market this Thursday, Jan. 23, selling ducks. Tickets are only $5 each. For more information about the Duck Race or the Race Around the River, contact Policare or Dennis Tababa at 237-5147.