Great American Duck Race
7/26/04
For Immediate Release
Contact:  Dave Johnson/ info@demingduckrace.com /(505) 544-3483

(Deming)-- A crazy idea from a group of local businessmen to help the
area's economy has proved to be one of the top events in New Mexico.
  Who would have ever thought that racing ducks would achieve the
national and international recongnition the annual Great American Duck
Race in Deming, New Mexico has through the years.  The annual event
has been featured on national television, as well as locales as far away as
Japan.
   The duck race has proved its staying-power as 2004 marks the 25th
anniversary.  This year's event will be held August 26th-29th, with duck
racing August 28th and 29th at the Luna County Courthouse Park.
   This year also sees the return of two types of live duck racing.  The
traditional dry land track, unchanged from the early days, will be back,
as well as year-three for the wet track, where our duck actually swim 
instead of run.
   Participants pay a $5 entry fee, and are supplied a racing duck.
In preliminary competition, racers compete on the eight lane sixteen
foot long tracks, with the top two contestants advancing.  The heat
races Saturday and early Sunday lead to the finals Sunday afternoon.
The prize is based on participation.  The more that race, the larger the
purse.  Last year both the dry track and wet track winners took home 
checks for over $800 each.
   Again this year there will be an early evening racing session Saturday 
night for those who want or need to avoid the mid-day August sun.
   This year's theme was a "no brainer".  The theme is "Our Silver 
Anniversary".   
   Duck racing is just a part of the fun during the weekend festival.  It
starts Thursday night with the Duck Royalty Pageants.  During this 
competition various age contestants dress like ducks, using this year's
theme, and walk away with cash prizes.
   On Saturday, its the Tournament of Ducks Parade, with bands, floats,
bikes and more.  Entry fee is $5, although some sponsors are supplied
free entry.
   Also Saturday and Sunday, the skies are aglow with about 30 Hot
Air Balloons in our annual rally.  Weather permitting there is also a
Balloon Glow Saturday night.
   Other events include the Great American Tortilla Toss, 
Green Chili Cookoff, Horseshoe and Washer Tournament, Carnival, 
Mechanical Bull Ride, Outhouse Race, dances, vendors, a softball tournament, 
custom designed belt buckle drawing, and all day entertainment.
   For more information on the Great American Duck Race, visit our
website at www.demingduckrace.com, or call toll free at 888 345-1125.