SPANISH FORT, Ala.—A bale of about 720 turtles took over Sardine Pass at Five Rivers Delta Resource Center Sunday.

The rubber toys—floating with aid of volunteer kayakers’ currents, to the finish line—were part of a Covenant Hospice of Mobile County fundraiser that netted $10,000, according to Jackie Crews, the facility’s development manager.

“The proceeds benefit our unfunded patient care and nonreimbursed programs in Mobile  County,” Crews said. “These programs include chaplain services, bereavement services and children’s support services.”

Adrienne Falls won first place and a weekend trip to the Big Easy; Denise Wager came in second and received a Crimson Tide football autographed by University of Alabama coach Nick Saban; and

Larry Quebedeaux came in third and received an autographed baseball by San Diego Padres pitcher Jake Peavy, Crews said.

The race began at around 2:30 p.m., when many people packed the docks and back deck at the resource center to get a glimpse of the turtles.

Due to low currents in the Delta Sunday, kayakers served as “turtle wranglers” and current makers for the turtles.

The Pelican pontoon also helped create artificial currents to move the turtles along, because most people know turtles move at a slow pace, even if they are made of rubber.

“It was exciting to see the Turtle Derby evolve from an idea to a large event that involved so many different groups,” Crews said. “We are so grateful for the support we received from all those involved.”

While the turtles raced many kids participated in activities inside to cool down, making hand-held turtle fans and creating colored turtle-themed pictures.

“We wanted to do something fun for Julie (her 4-year-old daughter),” Amanda Johnson, of Mobile, said of why she observed the race. “I think we’re going to have to get her a pet turtle soon.”

Covenant Hospice volunteers also painted kids’ faces for the event.

Claudia Woodyard, 6, said her favorite part of the day was her Hello Kitty face painting.

“This was something great for the little-one to do,” Shelley Piraino, of Silverhill, said. Her son, Blakeley, 3, showed off his temporary turtle tattoo on his hand while he sat at the crafts table with his mom, and dad, John, created a turtle fan.

Crews said the hospice hopes to make the Turtle Derby an annual event.