Annual Duck Race and Teas on the Green

The ever popular Annual Duck Race had looked in doubt after a week of unsettled weather. After an inspection of the Allan Water on Saturday morning, it was decided the race would go ahead, but would start from just below the Railway Bridge as there was significant debris from fallen trees in the river upstream of the bridge. Club members were soon hard at work putting up safety netting along the route while a few hardy souls braved the chill of the river to put up the fishing net at the finish line.

Meantime, in the relative warmth of the Cathedral Hall, members and partners, very ably assisted by 6^th form girls from Queen Victoria School were serving tea, coffee, bacon rolls and home baking.

The Alloa Bowmar Pipe Band was once more in attendance to entertain the crowds at the Coffee Morning and just before 1pm., they led a procession including Derek the Duck, up to the Railway Bridge. The rain held off for the start of the race and at the sound of the klaxon, the 4000 numbered ducks were tipped into the Allan Water and the race was on. The shorter course and the fast flowing water meant the ducks were at the finish line in record time. After the winners were retrieved and noted, it was all hands to the net to collect the ducks. Fortunately, the net held fast and the heroic efforts of the team in the water meant most were retrieved safely. A few did escape but were later captured further down river.

While the mop up operation was being concluded, the focus of attention shifted to the Drying Green where the Club had agreed to provide teas, coffees, filled crepes and snacks to support the other activities going on as part of the Fling by the River on Saturday afternoon and Rock by the River on Sunday afternoon. 

Despite weather conditions which ranged from bright sunshine to heavy rain and gusting wind, crowds were undeterred and enjoyed the various stalls and entertainment on offer.

When the tent was finally dismantled late on Sunday, the members and partners who had put in a huge effort over the weekend, were able to pack up and head home for a brief respite.

Our next event is the Judy Murray Tennis Cup on 12 June followed by the Armed Forces Day in Bridge of Allan on 18 June where we will again be providing our catering stall.