Dashing to the finish line

Dachshunds will be on the starting line at the Geelong Harness Racing Club (GHRC) on Friday, January 24 as the Dachshund Dash returns for its third instalment.

As part of the race, owners will enter their dachshunds where they will run down the 20m straight over several heats.

GHRC general manager Joe Fiala said the event was something the club introduced and the club was the only one to do it in the state.

“It’s one of our ideas that we decided we’d run a dash out on the harness racing track, it was just an idea we came up with, and it’s worked really well the past couple of years.”

Prizes are up for grabs for first, second and third including a winner’s trophy and a basket of goodies sponsored by Pets Domain.

Dachshunds can also dress to impress for the evening, with prizes also on offer for best dressed.

Running since 2023, the event generally attracts about 1,000 people to the club and 25 entrants, and is run alongside regular harness racing.

Mr Fiala said he hoped those who heading along felt like they were part of the club on the day.

“[We hope] they enjoy both kinds of racing, both the dachshunds and stay on for the harness racing, and enjoy the night and the free family event.”

Away from the track, the evening also includes free face painting, and some food vendors.

“We encourage people to bring their picnic blanket and a picnic basket and sit on the lawn and enjoy the night,” Mr Fiala said.

Dining will also be available in the Winning Post Dining Rooms and Bar, but bookings are essential.

Entry to the event is $20 with races on the track starting at 5pm.

For more information and the registration form, head to the Geelong Harness Racing Club Facebook page.