Cranducky Derby Fills Rahway River With Over 1,200 Duckies

The winner of the Oct. 13 Cranducky Derby was young Cranford resident, Adela Rakoski, who received a $250 gift card.

Cranford’s Cranducky Derby featured 1,279 pink, blue and yellow duckies that flowed down the Rahway River on a beautiful October day.

Mayor Tom Hannen was the Grand Marshall for the affair as he hit the river in “Miss Cranford” a 1929 restored canoe provided by the Hanson Park Conservancy.

Just after 4 p.m., gasps and cheers were echoed on the sidelines of the river as patrons looked on to see if their ducky would win the race. Evan from the Canoe Club tagged each duck as it crossed the finish line.

The Cranducky Derby benefits the Hanson Park Conservancy and the organization called it another grand success.

“Collectively it takes many working hands combined with great generosity to create such an event,” Geri Livelli, HPC Trustee said.  “All proceeds will continue to work toward making Hanson Park, located at 38 Springfield Ave. Cranford, the very personal and beautiful little park that has become an integral part of this community.”

The HPC is currently planning trees and shrubs with the help of the boy scouts, as well as pursuing more educational programs.

Boy Scout Troops #80 and #75 helped the event run smoothly through their resourcefulness and continued support.

Hanson Park Conservancy made the event possible in conjunction with: The Jaycees, Feder Insurance, Jersey Central Art Studios (JCAS), Spencer Savings Bank, T.D. Bank and P.S.E. & G. for generous donations.  HPC and nine local merchants contributed 12 prizes for 12 winners totaling over $1,000.  The Cranford Canoe Club, Il Gabbiano Restaurant, Periwinkle’s Fine Gifts, Breadsmith’s, Dub’s Subs, Kilkenny House, Joanie’s Café, Cranford/Westfield Rialto Digiplex Theater and The Rocking Horse offered generous contributions of prizes.  

A wrap-up picnic was held following the event at the Cranford Canoe Club.