(Deming) -   This year, between the raindrops at McKinley Duck Downs, the
winners of the 33rd Annual Great American Duck Race were decided.  On the Dry
Track, the winner was 11 year old Mercedes R. Perez, a student at Deming Middle
School.  She received a check for $1505.  When asked what she plans to do with
the money, she said she plans to spend it, but she's not sure on what. 

On the  Wet Track, the winner was 11 year old Kimberly Acosta, also a student at Deming  Middle School.  This is the second year Acosta has made it to the finals.  As  with Perez, Acosta has no immediate plans for her $1505.  There were a total of  107 preliminary heats on Saturday, and 47 on Sunday, for a total of 154 total
races.  That was about four more races than last year.  Participation determines
the final prize in the Duck Race. 

On Saturday, by 2/10 of a point the winner of the Comcast Tournament of Ducks Parade was Deming Elks Lodge #2750. 

They  received a $300 prize.  Second place went to Solitaire, and third place to
United Archers. 
Saturday's Hot Air Balloon activities were a bust due to windy conditions.  However, on Sunday the Solitaire Homes Hare and Hound Balloon Rally was held.   1st Place winner was  Eric Greenwood of Albuquerque, 8 inches.  Second Place winner was  Mark Heideman, with 12 inches. The third place winner was Clark Osbourne, with a distance of  6 foot 5 inches