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‘Wiener Takes All’: Dozens of wiener dogs racing Saturday at Colonial Downs

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 19: Mini dachshunds run as they compete in the Hophaus Southgate Inaugural Dachshund Running of the Wieners Race on September 19, 2015 in Melbourne, Australia. 30 mini dachshunds, 6 standard dachshunds and 18 dachshund puppies all competed for first place and for Best Dressed Dachshund during the annual Oktoberfest celebration. (Photo by Scott Barbour/Getty Images)

NEW KENT, Va. (WAVY) — Talk about a way to get buns in seats.

This Saturday, Colonial Downs in New Kent is hosting wiener dog racing, aka “The Hot Dog Dash.”


“Colonial Downs will host its most adorable races of the season as at least fifty wiener dogs take to the track for a mad dash to the ‘Wiener’s Circle’ on tiny little legs,” Colonial Downs said.

The event will start at 1:30 p.m., with eight different heats and a championship race in between the racetrack’s regular horse racing. And the winning pooch gets a $1,000 cash prize.

The contestants in Colonial Downs’ Hot Dog Dash (Courtesy of Colonial Downs)

Colonial Downs says its team is putting on the event in memory of former Colonial Downs Director of Facilities Bo Scott. He long supported the idea of wiener dog racing at the venue, but unfortunately passed away last year before he could see it.

“These wiener dog races are going to be a ton of fun for fans and families who come see us at the track on Saturday, and a really special event for our team members,” said Frank Hopf, Colonial Downs Senior Director of Racing. “Don’t let their size fool you—these dogs are athletes, and they can fly!”

Though unlike the other races, there won’t be any wagering on the wiener races, Colonial Downs says, citing the family-friendly aspect.

General admission and parking are free at Colonial Downs, but guests can also buy reserved seats in advance. For more information, visit www.colonialdowns.com.