GUERNSEY—There’s just something about those little ducks! Once a year--five in 1,200 chances is a steep swim for sure—but for some reason, the tickets sell and everyone is ready to see whose duck will get across the finish line first.
Duck Daze 2024 began much the same as it has in the past, featuring a 5K walk/run. For the early birds of the day, it always brings out a hearty group of competitors.
Taking first place for the men was Adam Duffy who completed the course in 30.03. First in the women’s competition was Terri Seyfang who ran 32.22. In the Youth category, there was a tie for first between Maci Lyons, Hazel Gaukel and Aaliyah Pavone who all ran 32.18.
Then it was on to the day’s featured event on the river. As the sun began to warm the day, the wind also picked up but all went as planned.

It only took about 30 minutes for five little ducks to be declared the big cash winners in this year’s annual Economic Development fundraiser.
Despite the wind’s best efforts to change their course, 1200 ducks hit the North Platte River at 10:30 a.m. and found their way to the south river bridge where the first five to cross under were declared the winners.
First place this year went to Robert Jairrel who won the grand prize of $750. Second place went to Mike Miller, worth $500; third place ($250) went to Amy Canaday; and the fourth and fifth places, worth $100 each, went to Dixie Bartow and Henry Brannan.
The cornhole tournament brought out solid competitors in an event that looks a lot easier than it really is.
The top pair in this year’s bracket turned out to be Mike King and Bobbie Walsh. Second place went to Craig and Chuck Frederick. Third place went to Jay Johnson and Dan Sisson.
Vendors with plenty of homemade goods and edibles were also on hand—and if you missed it at Duck Daze, you can still check them out as many are also regulars at the weekly Farmer’s Market held every Thursday night in Gordon Davis Park.
The Guernsey Volunteer Fire Department even brought their newest addition to their department. It’s a mobile command center trailer they were able to utilize in the recent fires. A thank you letter to the community for all the donations they received was also displayed. It was yet another reminder what it means to live in a small town—one that’s been through a lot this summer. Maybe that’s why things like Duck Daze and those little ducks are so important—even if it is just once a year.