CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Charleston Sternwheel Regatta Commission joined the City of Charleston, United Way of Central West Virginia, and West Virginia American Water to announce the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta will bring back The Great Rubber Duck Race as a signature event in 2023.
“We are excited to bring The Great Rubber Duck Race back as a signature Regatta event,” said Alisa Bailey, Charleston Sternwheel Regatta Commission President. “With this popular event, the United Way joins a great team of sponsors that will ensure the 2023 Regatta is better than ever.”
“We couldn’t be more excited to reunite THE GREAT RUBBER DUCK RACE and THE Charleston Sternwheel Regatta,” said Margaret O’Neal, United Way of Central West Virginia President. “We have been so grateful to West Virginia American Water for allowing us to bring the DUCK RACE back two years ago – but we knew all along that it should be part of the Regatta festivities. Our thanks to the City of Charleston and Charleston Sternwheel Regatta Commission for making this happen!”
“West Virginia American Water and our water-loving mascot, Puddles the Duck, are proud to be partnering with the United Way of Central West Virginia and the City of Charleston to support this unique event during the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta Festival,” said Robert Burton, president of West Virginia American Water. “The Great Rubber Duck Race will engage our community members and raise much-needed funds for our neighbors in need across the region.”
“One of the great things about the 2022 Charleston Sternwheel Regatta was the fantastic mix of nostalgic favorites and new events,” said Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin. “We are thrilled to add The Great Rubber Duck Race – a family favorite – to the mix for 2023!”
The first DUCK RACE was in 1988. It was brought back in 2021 with the support of West Virginia American Water. During the last two years, the Duck Race has raised nearly $80,000 to benefit United Way funded programs and initiatives.