Welcome to the information page for the inaurgural:
Watersafe Uk Search and Rescue Team - Quickest Quacker Challenge!
Our purebred pedigree racing ducks are primed and in fantastic condition for the great WUKSART Dovedale Duck Race! Bring the whole family along for a fantastic day of fun and frivolity, who knows, you may even take home the first prize of £250!!!
What is it?
The WUKSART Quickest Quacker Challenge is a race using the flow of the river Dove only. At the beginning of the race the ducks are released into the water all at the same time. The rest is entirely down to nature, the ducks will surge forward taking advantage of the current, some will surge ahead and some will falter, the first duck across the line wins first prize! No human intervention is allowed. There are also prizes for the runners up.
Where is it?
The Quickest Quacker Challenge Duck race will be held at Dovedale near Ashbourne in the stunning Derbyshire Dales. Take the A515 out of Ashbourne towards Buxton, after 1 Mile turn Left onto Spend Lane (Signposted Ilam, Thorpe, Dovedale). Follow the road to the left as you pass the Dog and Partridge pub. Continue on this road following signs for the Dovedale car park, when you get to Thorpe Village follow signs for the long stay car park and out of the village. Continue over a cattlegrid and as soon as you have crossed over the two stone bridges the carpark is a 1/4 of a mile on the right (once again signposted).
When is it?
Sunday the 8th of April 10am until 2pm.
What can I win?
1st Prize - £250
2nd Prize - £150
3rd Prize - £50
Other prizes include a mountain bike, caving experience day, rock climbing session.
How do I sponsor a duck?
You can sponsor your racing duck in one of several ways.
1. Come down and meet the team in Derby City Centre on the 3rd and 4th of March outside HSBC bank, ducks will be on sale all day both days.
2. You can contact our event organiser James by emailing
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he will be able to arrange the sponsorship of your duck/s.
3. You can buy your ducks on the day at Dovedale, WUKSART team members will be onsite and available from 11am.
What else do I need to know?
Parking
There is plenty of parking in a pay and display car park at the Ilam end of the Dale. Parking costs £2 for up to 4 hours or £4 for the full day (free for members of the National Trust).
Access
There is accessible parking available at the main Dovedale car park at the Ilam end of the dale.
Pathways beyond the stepping Stones are not suitable for wheelchair access to to steep slopes and undulating terrain.
Dogs
Dogs are welcome in Dovedale. Durnig the event we would ask for your cooperation in keeping your dog on a lead at all times to avoid disturbing the wildlife and livestock. During the Duck Race itself please ensure your dog is kept well clear of the water to prevent any interference with the race outcome.
Toilets
There are public toilets availale at the Dovedale car park and at Milldale.
Refreshments
To be confirmed.
FAQ's
Can I Keep my duck?
Unfortunately you will not be able to keep your duck. WUKSART will be able to re-use the ducks for future events.
Can I sponsor more than one duck?
Of course you can! The more the merrier, there is no limit on the amount of ducks you are allowed to sponsor.
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