Got questions? We've got answers.
Let's tag! A few days before the race, volunteers place a waterproof numbered tag on the bottom of every duck in the Derby. Everyone who adopts a duck, online or in person, goes into eQuack, our database. The tag numbers are shuffled, and eQuack automatically assigns the number of ducks you adopted to that many different tag numbers. Adopt 5 ducks and your name lands next to 5 tag numbers.
Tag numbers are assigned automatically and randomly by computer. To make sure no duck is taking steroids and the race is not fixed, tag numbers are never given out. Rest assured, every duck you adopted will be in the water.
If all of our ducks have not been adopted the day before the race, the remaining ducks are available on race day, online only, until one hour before the race starts. Anyone can adopt until then, as long as the race is not sold out.
The Alpha Group will contact you using the information you provided with your duck adoption. Winners are announced at the end of the race.
No, the winner does not need to be present to win. We do hope you will join us for the festivities though!
Rubber ducks, silly!
Anyone in the country who is 18 years of age or older. If someone adopts a duck under a child's name and the child wins a prize, the prize is given to the child's parent or guardian.
No. After you adopt your duck, The Alpha Group will work hard to train, coach and make sure each one is ready for race day. After the race, all of the ducks fly off to their next race somewhere in the US.
Unfortunately, duck adoptions are not eligible for a tax deduction. They are considered a random raffle, where people pay for a chance to win a prize. Please consult your tax advisor. To make a tax deductible donation, visit www.alphagroup.net.
Yes. Guests need a Waddles Pass: $30 for adults or $20 for kids ages 4 to 12 (kids 3 and under are free). It covers full-day admission to The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium and Zoombezi Bay, free parking, one duck entry (included in the $30 pass), early access to select slides and the wave pool, and the Kid's Zone with crafts, games and prizes. Zoombezi Bay season pass holders get in free with their membership, but must purchase a $5 rubber duck.
All proceeds benefit The Alpha Group, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has grown to be one of the largest providers of service to individuals with disabilities in Delaware County and now helps people in 10 surrounding counties. Your duck adoptions support critical programs and services provided by The Alpha Group (TIN 31-0810220).
Email chelsieholmes@alphagroup.net or call (740) 368-5810.
Still have questions?
Email chelsieholmes@alphagroup.net or call (740) 368-5810. We are happy to help!