By Paige Gurgainers

More than 1,700 ducks raced their way downtown for the 6th annual Minden Duck Derby Extravaganza in Minden presented by Home Federal Bank.  

“Despite threatening rain, we were blessed with a nice breeze and cloud cover, creating fantastic weather,” said Greater Minden Chamber President Stephanie Barnette. “These events are successful thanks to our dedicated behind-the-scenes partners, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters. Multiple departments from the City of Minden, including the police and fire departments, played crucial roles. Our Chamber Board members and volunteers consistently rise to the occasion. I cannot go without thanking the Youth Challenge Cadets from Camp Minden who helped us so much. They were awesome.” 

After many heats, the top ducklings raced their feature with third place going to Terri Podak, second place to Mimi Jordan and the top duck belonging to Mattie Robinson.  

The event also featured a children’s parade with participants showing off their best Fourth of July gear. There was also a watermelon seed spitting contest, live music by Flight Delay and vendors lining the streets selling anything from food goods to jewelry.  

Another highlight of the night included a “celebrity” pizza eating contest. Minden Mayor Nick Cox, Police Chief Jared McIver, Deputy Chief Tokia Harrison, Miss Minden Maison Wilbanks, Minden Medical Center CEO Keith Cox and Webster Parish School Board Vice President Johnnye Kennon went slice for slice, but Harrison took the pie.  

Slays Fireworks out of Many, La. provided fireworks to wrap up a great evening in downtown Minden.  

“Hosting such a large community event requires substantial effort, but witnessing the community unite and enjoy themselves is incredibly rewarding,” said Barnette. “From the duck races, music, and kids’ activities to the vendors, contests, and fireworks, we hope everyone had a memorable time and will join us again next year!