The Squamish Coast Guard Auxiliary (SCGA) is set to drop 4,000 rubber ducks from a helicopter on the Mashiter River as part of a new fundraiser to raise money to support marine search and rescue and boating safety efforts.
"This is going to be a fun and exciting event, but it is also an important fundraiser for our unit," said SCCA, Unit Leader, Ron Drewry. "If successful, it could become an annual event."
Locals can take part by purchasing one duck for $5 or 5 for $20 for a chance to win high end prizes.
The first rubber duck to cross the finish line will earn its owner a $5,000 cruise voucher, second place gets a 47-inch Sony TV and third place gets $1,000 in cash.
Tickets are available at Village Green Garden Centre at 1861 Mamquam Road, the Bookshelf at 38012 Cleveland Avenue, Cut'n Loose at 1345 Pemberton Avenue or by calling 604 892-7755.
The event takes place Sunday Aug. 22, with the ducks dropping out of a helicopter just north of the Eagle Vista RV Campground at noon.
Head to the finish line at the campground along the dyke at Brennan Park Recreation Centre.
"Come out, cheer on your duck, and join the Squamish Coast Auxiliary for a barbecue after the race," said Drewry.
Realizing the future growth of the north end of Howe Sound, the Squamish Emergency Program launched the Squamish Coast Guard Auxiliary in the fall of 2008.
The auxiliary responds to marine search and rescue calls and supports many community marine events in Howe Sound.The Canadian Coast Guard partially funds the program, but fundraising is necessary to support activities and the organization.
The auxiliary enhances Canada's search and rescue (SAR) capability. Through SAR response, prevention and safety related activities, the auxiliary and the Coast Guard work together to achieve their common objective of preventing the loss of life and injury.
