By Glenn Rolfe

LONG NECK — It’s a sure bet these races didn’t bear any resemblance to the Kentucky Derby.

Nope, they were an entirely different animal.

Nevertheless, numerous wagers were made Saturday during the 19th annual Crab Race, a tradition staged by the Sons of AMVETS of Dave Dolby Sussex Post 2, as well as the post family.

Sometimes a bit feisty, blue crabs journeyed from a starting gate down a waterfall chute, much to the delight of a large crowd at the family-friendly event. The gathering also included a children’s area, grilled food, plenty of drink options and other fundraising activities.

“This has been a tradition in Long Neck that has been going on for quite some time,” said Cody Ayers, director of operations for the post and adjutant for the Sons squadron. “This is the largest fundraiser for the Sons that we have every year. This funds our programs to donate money back into the community, to various organizations, the fire departments, our ambulance squad, the Boys & Girls Club.

Additionally, “our money that is raised by the Sons goes back into the post. When they need a new freezer in the kitchen and when they need a handicap ramp for a disabled veteran in our community, we are raising money to support those kinds of causes.”

On Saturday, betters shelled out $2 for each numbered crab. There were eight total races, with about 10 crustaceans per race.

The payout to the winners was like a fifty-fifty.

“Half of that money comes back to Sons, and half is paid out to the winners,” Mr. Ayers said.

First-time attendees Ed Ricks and his wife, Gail Ricks, had been part-time residents in the area before moving down from Delaware County, Pennsylvania, three years ago.

“We tried to get here (in prior years), but we couldn’t,” Mr. Ricks said. “We were here (Friday), and they were talking about how many people were going to be here. So, we got here early.

“We used to go to the Jersey Shore all the time because (we lived) outside of Philadelphia. But the extra ride down here is worth it.”

The Crab Race, usually held around the Fourth of July, has remained popular over its nearly two decades.

“I think it is being passed down from generation to generation. I used to come here as a kid and watch the Crab Races. ... We have people that will ask us the date of the next year’s Crab Race before we even have it planned,” Mr. Ayers said. “And you look around here — there are lots of kids’ activities. We try to make this a family-friendly event.”

And, as for the competitors themselves, there was no pardon for the winners.

“Unfortunately, once we are done with these crabs, and they have a moment of glory, they do go right into the steamer pot. And they are delicious. We sell them, as well, as another fundraiser,” he said.

“So, we’re racing them, and we’re selling them.”