Dachshunds dashing into Findlay

FINDLAY — The National Dachshund Races and Circuit Finals will return to Riverside Park on Saturday, Sept. 27 for a day full of costumes, contests and short-legged races. Now in its 21st year in Findlay, the annual event draws in dachshunds and their owners from across the country for one of the city's most beloved sporting competitions. The day opens with registration at 9 a.m. A costume contest kicks off activities at 10 a.m., followed by the main event — dachshund racing at 1p.m., after a lunch break. Races are divided into three main categories: puppy, adult and senior. Additional races include Mixed Doxie, Small Breed (under 15"), Cart (for dogs using wheelchairs) and a special race for small dogs with any type of handicap. Marking the end of the season for the racing circuit, the yet-to-be-determined Findlay champion will face off against winners from Pittsburgh, Florida and Georgia in the last race of the day for the title of 2025 National Dachshund Races Circuit Champion. In addition to the races, visitors can watch five costume contests: Best Dressed Male, Best Dressed Female, Best Dressed Group, Best Look-a-Like and Most Original. Any dog breed is welcome to participate. Two other popular events are Best Nose, a timed hot dog sniffing challenge and the Mayor's Cup, a small agility course. Another race, the Race for America, will benefit USWarDogs.org. Proceeds from admission and the races will support Sophia's Grace Foundation (a dachshund rescue), the Animal Cancer Foundation and USWardogs.org. Registration to compete in events is $9 in advance, and $10 the day of the event. Admission to attend is $2 at the door. This year's event will also include additional activities for attendees. For $5, guests can purchase an activity package that includes a photo booth for pets, pup cups, a painting station where dogs create artwork by pushing paint around a sealed bag with peanut butter, a balloon walk and a prize wheel. Fundraising efforts also include 11 silent auction items and around 30 raffle baskets. Those interested in registering for races or events, being a volunteer or a vendor can contact weinerraces@gmail.com or visit www.nationaldachshundraces.org.