Caron Rocha’s little duck ‘Panda’ out-paddled 5,926 competitors to finish first across the line at Saturday’s Allens Pond Duck Derby in Westport.

The victory leaves the Dartmouth resident with a couple of big decisions to make — where to go for her first prize — dinner for two anywhere on the planet (meal, flight, hotel and transportation included), and whom to take along for the trip.

“Thailand and China have been circulating about as potential destinations, but we’ll wait for final confirmation from the winner,” said Jen Costa of Allens Pond

Ms. Rocha, who purchased a baker’s dozen of rubber ducks for the race (13 of them) wasn’t far from the action when her lucky moment came.“Caron and her kids have volunteered as “Duck Wranglers” for the event for years – helping to get the ducks in and out of the water (no small feat),” Ms. Costa said. “When notified over the phone by Gina Purtell, sanctuary director, she was completely surprised to learn that one of her ducks did indeed win the grand prize.”

Race conditions at the Barney’s Joy channel were wet but favorable with an incoming tide. Rain fell early but sun broke through just in time for the race

“The festival that followed was phenomenal, with over 250 people in attendance, loads of activities and educational exhibits from Allens Pond and partner organizations, a delicious $5 barbecue with amazing homemade desserts, and live music,” Ms. Costa said. A silent auction and live plant auction topped it all off. 

Over $53,000.00 was raised for the sanctuary and its conservation efforts, educational programming and environmental advocacy.

The sanctuary thanked all of the prize donors - 41 in all; and grand prize sponsors -  Sylvan Nursery, The Bayside Restaurant, Nye Synthetic Lubricants, Compton Catering and Clambakes, Milbury and Compnay Real Estate Brokerage and Oppenheimer, as well as Buckley and Moniz, Village Travel and Austin Limousine Service. 

Festival sponsors were Watchman Waterproofing, Fiber Optic Center, Inc. and Whaling City Sound of New Bedford.  Tents were donated by Sperry Tents and food for the event by Coastal Roasters, Eva’s Garden and the Bayside Restaurant. 

For a complete list of winners, visit the Allens Pond Sanctuary website.