The Return of the Beloved X2O Duck: Why Cyclocross Enthusiasts Are Celebrating

Cyclocross season is kicking off in Belgium, and there’s one quirky trophy that has everyone buzzing: the iconic plastic duck. After a two-year hiatus, these memorable prizes are back, making waves in the muddy fields where cyclocross competitors battle it out. Forget about fancy trophies or gym bags filled with goodies; the three-foot-tall duck is the real deal, capturing the hearts of fans and riders alike!

A Quirky Collectible Returns

The X2O Badkamers Series is once again offering these delightful ducks as podium prizes starting from the 2025-26 season. Cyclocross racer Toon Aerts shared his thoughts, explaining how these vibrant tokens became a must-have item in the sport. “These ducks were something special,” he said. He wasn’t alone in his sentiment; many fans have been clamoring for their return since they became staples of the podium.

Imagine riders standing tall atop the podium, clutching their hard-fought duck as spectators cheer. Aerts fondly remembers how fans would often ask if he could win them a duck, eagerly hoping to add this unique trophy to their collections. These giant orange ducks aren’t just trophies; they symbolize fun, victory, and a touch of humor in the often gritty world of cyclocross.

A Shift in Trends

So why did these ducks go missing in the first place? For a couple of seasons, the traditional ducks were replaced by smaller, fluffy versions. While they may have looked cute, they lacked that special something that made the original ducks treasures. Riders and fans alike found them less appealing, and they were often tossed out to crowds rather than cherished.

Aerts explained that trophies have changed over the years. In the past, winners might receive baskets of local goodies or even unique items like shower heads. Nowadays, those dazzling prizes seem to fade away, making the duck prizes even more special. There’s something about a giant plastic duck that strikes a chord with both competitors and fans, and it’s a prize that’s sure to create memories.

Limited Edition Ducks

This year marks five years of the X2O Badkamers brand’s partnership with the cyclocross series, which has led to the creation of special edition ducks for the top three finishers. Each duck will be uniquely designed to represent specific races, like a cobblestone motif for the thrilling Koppenbergcross.

However, don’t think you can just stroll into a store and snag one. Series marketing director Anja Vandendriessche disclosed that each duck costs a whopping €600 to produce, making them entirely exclusive to the top competitors. So, if you want one for yourself, you’ll need to hit the racetrack and chase that podium!

Conclusion: A New Chapter in Cyclocross

As the cyclocross season unfolds, fans can’t wait to see which riders will take home these beloved duck trophies. The return of the giant plastic duck isn’t just about winning; it’s about enjoying the sport, creating memories, and building a community of passionate enthusiasts. So whether you’re on the bike or cheering from the sidelines, let’s celebrate this quirky piece of cyclocross culture together. It’s time to get pedaling and maybe, just maybe, earn your own duck! 🦆🚴‍♂️

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