World Gold Medalist (Swimming) Special Olympics Athlete, Erin Hoffman, may not have won a prize with her adopted rubber duck in the 2009 Duck Derby, but that’s not going to stop her from trying again.

“Yes! The prizes are great but more importantly, the Duck Derby allows thousands of athletes to participate all year round in sports competition,” said Erin. “It also gets many people to become involved with Special Olympics and get a better understanding of what we do.”

The Duck Derby is a fundraiser that raises money to help provide year-round training and competition to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. This year the event will be held June 25 at Six Flags White Water.

“I enjoy seeing the ducks race to the finish line and I like cheering my duck on,” continued Erin. “It reminds me of when I’m competing in swimming heats and my friends and family are there cheering for me. Competing is a great feeling, though winning is much better!”