It was all about the ducks -- and, of course, nature -- at Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary’s weekend-long duck derby celebration.

First, on August 18, more than 6,000 ducks set sail on Allens Pond for the big duck derby race. The largest fundraising event of the year for the sanctuary involves participants “adopting” rubber ducks, this year sold in batches ranging from one single duck for $10 to $200 for 30 entries.

The ducks are then released into Allens Pond and the first one to pass the finish line nets its owner the grand prize.

Owing to a fast-moving current and strong winds, it was one of the quickest races in history, according to Mass Audubon’s Jennifer Costa. It was also the most ducks ever, with exactly 6,902 rubber ducks which stormed the pond during the race.

The winning duck, named "Trish," netted Patricia Vasconcellos of Westport the grand prize. She and a guest will dine for free at a restaurant of their choosing, with one slight twist: it can be located anywhere in the world. Round-trip airfare and two nights' lodging is included in the prize package.

Vasconcellos received her duck entry for participating in the July Elaine Seguer Memorial Golf Tournament at the Allendale Country Club. Costa noted that made the win even more special, as Seguer was a long-time volunteer at Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary. She was directly involved with the duck derby, and was responsible for stamping each duck before the race. She passed away from cancer in 2017.

The winner was a closely guarded secret until the final 15 minutes of a festival held on August 19. It was both a celebration of the duck derby, and of the sanctuary’s importance. Located along a saltwater pond, it is home to osprey and other birds. During the event, tables were set up for the more than 250 people who attended to learn about the sanctuary and the animals which call it home.

There was also suspense in the air, as nearly everyone in attendance at the festival had a duck in the race.

Rachel Medeiros bought three ducks for the race, but when she heard more than 6,000 had entered and was asked if she thought she would win, she said ‘no, but someone has to.”

More than $57,000 was raised, which included a silent auction, $5 BBQ, and a live plant auction. Proceeds benefit the sanctuary.