Supporters of Kingfisher Public School students and teachers proved their overwhelming generosity last year was not just a Covid-fueled fluke.

Kingfisher Educational Foundation board members were both pleased and surprised last year when participation in their annual duck race increased by almost 44%.

Even in the midst of the pandemic, board members sold 502 entries in the race at $50 each, compared to 288 in 2019.

This year’s total of 490 nearly matched the record, and will net the foundation a sizeable chunk of change for its endowment fund, which finances grants for innovative educational enrichment programs dreamed up or adapted by Kingfisher teachers.

“I’m humbled by the support that our community continues to give to our teachers and students year after year,” KEF President David Blair said.

“Nothing showed the creativity and resiliency of our teachers and students like the challenges of the last couple of years and the grants the community has so generously helped us fund have made a difference.

“KEF is a great organization and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

Before expenses, the race grossed $24,500 for KEF.

Prize winners in this year’s race include Heim Orthodontics, $1,000; Dennis’ Express Pharmacy, $500; Dale’s 81 Electric, $300 (first-third places) and TLC Custom Homes, $100 (last place).

Pictures of the winners will appear in Wednesday’s Times & Free Press.