Grand River Raceway will bring back its popular Wiener Dog races this Friday, July 12.
Also referred to as “the most adorable race of the season,” 30 Dachshunds will race in three heats of 10 dogs in between the horse races. The three winners from each heat will move on to the final race consisting of nine dogs, which will (hopefully) dash to the finish line in the race to take home the title of "top dog."
Dreamland Pet, Grand River Raceway's friendly neighbours, are joining the fun for the first time as presenting sponsor. Dreamland Pet has provided each Wiener Dog competitor a fun prize pack. Top dogs (top three winners) will get an extra special treat! Dreamland Pet will be on-site with a booth and are excited to be a part of this fun event.
“We are so excited to be able to be involved with such an iconic event in our community,” said Tori Hadfield, Team Leader, Dreamland Pet. “It's amazing how watching racing 'weenies' can really bring people together. We can't wait to cheer on all the competitors and look forward to seeing who gets crowned champion. We also look forward to seeing all of your friendly faces at our retail booth where you can pick up essentials for your pet champion!”
“This is a race the whole community gets excited about,” said Louise Frost, Marketing Coordinator, Grand River Raceway. “People come from far and wide to see these adorable pups attempt to cross the finish line, making it our most attended and busiest race night. We can’t wait to see the crowd cheering on all the Wieners...wait, I mean winners!”
This is a free, family-friendly event with several options for entertainment, seating and food. Seating is available on the tarmac, grandstands and The GrandWay Patio. There will be three food trucks on-site for visitors to enjoy, including Endless Inspiration and MegaCone Creamery, located at the East Gate. The GrandWay Lounge and GrandWay Patio BBQ will be open for dinner with the menu featuring a BBQ combo with a burger or hotdog and kettle chips for $10 (tax included). Maverick Distillery will be selling beverages on The GrandWay Patio. VIP tickets in the Captain’s Quarters are sold out. Contact [email protected] to get on the list to be contacted first when tickets go on sale next year.
A limited quantity of Wiener Dog hats will be sold during the event for $25 (tax included).
Fans can vote for their favourite Wiener Dog by clicking here. The People’s Choice Awards are brought to you by Dreamland Pet. Voting closes at 8 p.m. on Friday.
Last year, a crowd of around 3,000 people attended the event. It is recommended visitors come early. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Grand River Raceway asks that visitors respect all guests and staff and allow everyone an opportunity to see the dogs race.
Post time for the live harness racing program is 6:30 p.m.
To view Friday's harness racing entries, click the following link: Friday Entries - Grand River Raceway.
(With files from Grand River Raceway)