There was a giant splash of yellow for a good cause.
The annual Windy City Rubber Ducky Derby fundraiser for the Special Olympics kicked off at 10 a.m. Thursday with face painting, games and free food near the Wrigley Building on North Michigan Avenue.
At 1 p.m. the race began with approximately 45,000 yellow rubber ducks labeled with numbered tags making a splash into the Chicago River from the back of a dump truck. Boaters followed behind with spray guns to help the flow of ducks move through the water.
A single duck adoption cost $5 each, a Quack Pack with six ducks cost $25 and Mega Ducks consisted of 24 for $100. The rubber toys were sold until 12:30 p.m.
The race winners had a chance to receive a 2013 Chevy Malibu, a seven-night, all-inclusive vacation to Cancun, a NASCAR Prize Package or a Membership to the Foundation Room at the House of Blues.
The money collected allows both youth and adult athletes participate in the Special Olympics Illinois sports programs at no cost.
NBC 5 is a sponsor of this event.
