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215 Dachshunds Race for Glory at Starkville Derby

News Summary

The third annual Starkville Derby is set to delight pet lovers in the Cotton District this Saturday, featuring 215 dachshund racers. From lively activities to tasty treats from over 130 vendors, the event promises a fun-filled day for families. Participants will compete in five divisions, including special heats for puppies and non-dachshunds, all while supporting the Oktibbeha County Humane Society through fundraising efforts. With various entertainment options and the famous Oscar Meyer Wienermobile making an appearance, the Starkville Derby is the highlight of the spring season!

215 Dachshunds Gear Up for Glory at the Starkville Derby in Cotton District

The excitement is palpable in Starkville as the third annual Starkville Derby kicks off this Saturday in the heart of the Cotton District. Pet lovers and race enthusiasts alike are in for a treat, with approximately 215 dachshund racers coming in from all corners of the nation to showcase their speed and charm!

Festival Vibes and Thrilling Races

Get ready to cheer because this isn’t just any ordinary event! The festival grounds will open bright and early at 9 a.m. and run until 2:30 p.m. Event organizer Alden Thornhill encourages everyone to come down early to snag the best spots. What’s more? You will find a lively atmosphere adorned with over 130 food and art vendors, offering a cornucopia of local treats and unique crafts to enjoy while you watch the races unfold.

Dachshund races will take place on a well-prepared 100-foot long turf track designed specifically for these spirited pups. There will be plenty of seating, with bleachers lining the track for optimal viewing, alongside a special viewing area equipped with a large jumbotron to catch all the action even from a distance.

Family-Friendly Fun

Don’t worry if you’re bringing the kids along—there are activities galore! Expect fun features such as pony rides and bounce houses to keep the little ones entertained while everyone anticipates the races. And here’s a delightful twist: this year, children and families will also enjoy thrilling displays from frisbee dogs performing jaw-dropping tricks!

Adding to the charm of the day, the famous Oscar Meyer Wienermobile will make a cameo appearance, bringing smiles and a feeling of nostalgia.

Air Show and National Pride

The event will kick off in style with exciting flyovers from the Mississippi Aviation Academy and MSU’s Raspet Flight Research Laboratory. The national anthem will create a stirring atmosphere just moments before the first race kicks off.

Participants will compete in five specific divisions: adults, seniors, puppies, special needs, and non-dachshunds. Each division will have individual heats leading up to the crowning of a “top dog” for each category, creating fierce competition and a lot of tail-wagging as the races unfold!

A Community Tradition

The derby draws considerable participation from local families, one of whom is Taylor Jernigan returning with her beloved trio of dachshunds to defend their title. It’s wonderful to see families getting involved and showcasing their furry friends in such an exciting community event. Over the years, attendance has steadily grown, a testament to the love for dachshunds and community spirit in Starkville.

This year, the derby is aiming high, striving to surpass last year’s impressive fundraising total. In 2023, a staggering $45,000 was raised for the Oktibbeha County Humane Society, emphasizing the crucial charitable role this event plays in supporting animal welfare initiatives.

Logistics and Access

No need to fret about parking! Convenient parking arrangements are available at The Mill at MSU and Barnes and Noble on the MSU campus, with shuttle services that will whisk you away to the festival grounds.

With excitement building and darting dachshunds ready to sprint for glory, the Starkville Derby is poised to be the highlight of the spring.

So, round up your friends, bring the family and your love for dachshunds, and prepare for a day filled with laughter, community cheer, and friendly competition. You won’t want to miss this canine carnival!