Wiener dogs race for a cause at Wiener Mania

By Amanda Cotton
Journalism Student

Photo by Kari Morrison Young

Contestants take their positions on the starting line at 2009 Wiener Mania race gate.

On Sunday March 14th, wiener dogs will race to raise money for the Adopt A Grey Hound Foundation, at the 14th annual Wiener Mania in Apache Trail, Apache Junction

Just like any traditional marathon runner, wiener dogs are enlisted into the races in order to gather donations for their cause. The dachshund-friendly fundraiser plans to raise funds to help shelter, feed and maintain the health of retired, abandoned and even abused greyhounds. According to Adopt A Grey Hound Foundation director Kari Morrison Young, last year’s race had raised approximately $20,000 and Arizona Adopt A Grey Hound hopes to raise as much or more this year from the help of dog lovers everywhere.

Wiener Mania is an event the whole family can attend. Event goers are also encouraged to bring their daschunds. The event will be held at the Apache Greyhound Park, 2551 W Apache Trail and will be operated between the hours of 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.  Admission for Wiener Mania is $3, which is then contributed to the foundations cause

Spectators can look forward to seeing the unique sight of wiener dogs racing, “stupid tricks” and costume contests, along with a dachshund tattoo stamp booth. If all the excitement of the races works up an appetite, the foundation will be selling refreshments as well as hotdogs.