CHICAGO — Thousands of rubber ducks will race down the river Thursday for an annual event that raises funds and awareness for the athletes of Special Olympics Illinois.

The annual Chicago Ducky Derby kicks off on Thursday morning and crowds have already begun to gather at Pioneer Court along North Michigan Avenue as they wait to see which duck takes the top prize.

Participants who purchased a duck for $10 will look on as the mass of rubber waterfowl makes its way down the river and a handful of lucky donors whose ducks cross the finish line first will be awarded one of three available prizes, including a Chevy Trailblazer, a $2,500 Cash Prize and tickets to the Cub's W Club Chicago.

But this year's competition is stiff, as those hoping to get their hands on one of the big prizes will fa

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