The quick and the long

Australian Championship Running of the Wieners is this weekend, and dachshunds of all sizes and one long shape will descend on Roma.

BEST FRIENDS: Natalie Golder (with Audrey) and Amanda Weyman-Jones (with Rosie). Picture: Jorja McDonnell

DACHSHUNDS will descend on Bassett Park this Saturday for the canine event of the season.

Beloved sausage dogs from across the region will compete in a variety of novelty events before the big race: the Running of the Wieners.

Many Dachshund races are official events, and as organiser Natalie Golder explains, Roma's iteration was borne out of a small group of dog-lovers.

"One little dachshund was having a first birthday party and we were going to hire the campdraft arena, just to let the dogs run around together,” she said.

"People heard about it, and then a few more heard.

"It grew into quite a large group of dogs and owners that wanted to come together for a run, and we decided to race them.”

She said it has evolved into an afternoon which recognises and appreciates the breed.

Hazel has recovered from surgery on her back legs to be a part of the day. Picture: Jorja McDonnell

"The afternoon starts with novelty events: most plump, shortest legs, longest dog, best dressed, most obedient, and the obstacle course,” she said.

"As for the race, the record is 4.25 seconds and it was set by Pokey in 2017.”

While the event may be a competition, organiser Amanda Weyman-Jones said the event is peaceful and friendly.

"They're very social animals, and I find that very interesting; there's not much barking on the day, and no fighting or biting,” she said.

"In the time we've been running this event, I haven't seen a single fight or bite.”

The free event is at Bassett Park and begins at 2pm

All are welcome, with no competitor registration required.

Originally published as The quick and the long