WESTPORT — Maureen Jones of Dartmouth proved it only takes one duck to win – she adopted “Meatballs” as her one and only this year. Now, Maureen has quite the decision to make — actually, a couple decisions to make: 1. What her dream vacation destination will be and 2. Who she’ll be traveling with!

This was a fantastic 16th year for the Allens Pond Duck Derby with 5,972 rubber ducks racing on the incoming tide at Barney’s Joy, said Jennifer Costa, programs administrator for the Mass Audubon SouthCoast Sanctuaries.

Saturday, August 10, “was an absolutely gorgeous day for the race,” she said.

“Strong winds created challenging conditions that strained the initial race course, causing a delay of start and reset.” But, “upon launching, the ducks funneled beautifully through the course and Meatballs” took first place.

Her grand prize includes dinner for two anywhere in the world with round-trip airfare and two nights’ lodging

She wasn’t the only winner as there were 42 other prizes including restaurant certificates, gifts from area shops and overnight stays. Winners came from far and wide – throughout Massachusetts as well as New York, Maryland, Rhode Island, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Colorado and California.

The festival that followed on Sunday “was phenomenal, with over 250 people in attendance, loads of activities and educational exhibits from Allens Pond and partner organizations, a delicious $10 barbecue with amazing homemade desserts, and live music with Don Legge.

A silent auction and live plant auction topped it all off.

Over $50,000 was raised. “Endless thanks go out to all of the volunteers who supported the event. Their hard work and dedication made the entire weekend an amazing event.”