The countdown down is on, and the ducks are primed for Sunday’s Life Education fundraising Duck Race at the Port Ohope Wharf.

Thanks to support from the business community, there will be 85 ducks competing in the corporate duck race at 3pm and close to 1100 lining up at the start line for the $5 race at 3.30pm.

Eastern Bay of Plenty Life Education Trust board chair John Spring is promising “mint” conditions for the event with sunny skies, warm temperatures and a gentle onshore breeze to keep ducks close in to the shore.

He is hoping the tide will also co-operate. “Hopefully we have got the right tide, and the ducks don’t get too confused and start swimming the wrong way – that would be mayhem.”

The races are scheduled for mid-afternoon, but the fun begins earlier with food trucks on site, a barbecue and children’s activities in the Wharfshed from 1pm.

The winner of the corporate race will receive $1000 worth of advertising in the Beacon.

In the $5 race, there are cash prizes of $300, $200 and $100 for first, second and third.

For those that have yet to purchase a duck, they will be on sale at the wharf prior to the event.

Spring said last year the weather was great and the wharf area was packed with families having a fun time with Harold and Life Education Trust EBOP.

He is looking forward to a similarly festive atmosphere this year.

Photo Troy Baker E6196-07