DEMING – The 46th annual Great American Duck Race will bring its traditional parade back to downtown Deming this weekend. The Columbus Electric Co-Op Tournament of Ducks Parade is set for Saturday, Aug. 23, at 10 a.m., featuring the theme “Vegas Casino Duck – Press Your Luck, Race a Duck.”
Floats, cars, trucks, bikes and tractors are all expected to line up for the parade, with entries eligible for cash prizes if they incorporate the casino theme. Spectators can also look forward to seeing Bravo Mic Communications staff in the familiar KDEM and KOTS “Red Mix” van, along with Zia Country’s parade pickup truck, both joining in on the fun.
The Duck Race Committee has named the family of the late coach Ricky Baca and longtime community volunteer Stella Jasso as this year’s parade grand marshals.
Jasso, a lifelong resident, has given decades of service through the Deming Noon Lions and El Pasiano Lioness clubs, working to provide glasses for those in need. She also worked as a bookkeeper, cheered on the Deming Wildcats, and was a loyal supporter of the Duck Race year after year.
Baca, who died at 47, was remembered as a coach and mentor to young athletes in softball and football. Known for his motto “Trust the Process,” he was celebrated as a family man and community figure whose influence reached far beyond the playing field. His family will attend the parade to accept the honor in his memory.
The parade has long been a highlight of Duck Race weekend, a community festival that draws families, visitors, businesses, and local organizations together. Along with the parade, the weekend includes live entertainment, vendors, and, of course, the duck races themselves, a Deming tradition for more than four decades.
Parade registration is available at demingduckrace.com or in person at the Deming-Luna County Chamber of Commerce, 800 E. Pine Street. The full schedule of Duck Race events can also be found at demingduckrace.com.