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Lions Clubs International - District 105M - Midland News

Ordinary People doing Amazing Things


 



Spernall Duck Race 

 

Our New Sail Banner marks the start of the race
 

The third Studley Duck Race last Sunday 25th., was a fantastic and enjoyable success, well, for the ducks that is. For the rest of us, we got nearly as wet as the ducks in the rain that poured down just before the race started.



Ducks at the ready to be tipped into the river
 

A good number of people braved the weather and came to the Studley Cricket Club grounds to see the ducks race down the river Arrow. Redditch Lions Club were holding the 3rd. year revival of the ancient Spernall Duck Race. Before the race started, members of the public could try their hands at, Laser Clay shooting, Archery, coca-nut shy, tombola and hot and cold drinks and food from the Cricket Club clubhouse.



Some of the public watching the race
 

At 12 noon in the ever increasing rain, 1500 numbered little yellow plastic ducks were tipped over the bridge parapet on the A435 by the Studley Cricket Club, into the river Arrow. The ducks at the beginning, slowly, bobbed and bounced down the river, some even going backwards. However, excitement mounted as they approached dangerous rapids and whirlpools before a last minute dash to the finishing line, 35 minutes later.



Operations Centre
 

Duck nos. 1139 and 1204, a good 15 yards ahead of the mass yellow armada of ducks, vied for position over the last rapids with 1204 just reaching the finishing line first.

 

The Armada on it's way
 

The first 3 ducks across the line, won, in order, £100. £50. and £25. 13 consolation prizes for the 'Also Swams' were also awarded to ducks, taken at random, from the rest of the fleet. All winners will be contacted by a member of the Redditch Lions Club and arrangements made to deliver the prizes.



Making a run for the rapids
 

Redditch Lions Club would like to thank all who supported the Race. All profits will help the Club carry out their welfare work amongst the people of Redditch and Studley.



Bringing up the rear rescuing stranded ducks, Dave Smith from the Upton Warren Outdoor Education Centre
 

THE RESULTS are:-

Winners - Duck nos.
1st 1204 - P Kilney, 2nd 1139 – Holder, 3rd 114 - J Baker



Anyone recognise this rear?
 
Also Swams - Duck nos.
1240 - Andy, 977 - H Jones, 948 - Jack, 979 - N Hoskinson, 787 - Trev, 772 - R Pegg 578 - A Killick, 599 - P Berry, 1002 - K Elliott, 106 - J Hoare, 239 - K Hall, 1475 - J Wickham, 799 - D Andrews

Phil Lawrence



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