CULLMAN, Ala. – Some of Cullman Oktoberfest’s fastest, lowest-to-the-ground competitors took the track Saturday, Oct. 3, as the annual Wiener Dog Races drew a packed crowd to Wüffenplatz in Depot Park.
The races, one of the most popular contests at the festival, ran from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Spectators lined the wooden fence around the grassy track several rows deep, phones raised, while owners carried their dachshunds to the starting line.
Before each heat, owners stood behind a row of brightly painted, Bavarian-style starting gates, holding their racers, from sleek short-haired reds to fluffy long-haired creams, as the dogs waited for their chance to sprint for glory and, in the festival’s words, “probably a treat at the finish line.”
Some families came ready to cheer. Supporters of one racer wore matching “Team Nadia” T-shirts printed with their dog’s portrait, while another fan sported a “Team Kerfuffle” shirt with the motto “Full speed, zero plan.”
Presented by Citizens Bank & Trust
The Wiener Dog Races were presented by Citizens Bank & Trust.
Alan Wood of Citizens Bank & Trust in Cullman welcomed the crowd on the bank’s behalf. “We’re glad to sponsor this event,” Wood said. “Great fun, family event. We’re glad to see everyone show up.”
Wiener dogs of all ages and sizes were eligible to enter. Pre-registration was required, with a $10 fee per dog and limited slots per age group, and dogs had to stay on a leash at all times when they weren’t racing.
Wüffenplatz was new to Oktoberfest. Located near the center of Depot Park, just north of Arnold Street, the grassy space was designed for dogs and their owners to play and relax during the festival.
The OktoFURfest dog costume contest was scheduled immediately after the races at Wüffenplatz, with dogs dressed in their best Oktoberfest looks, from lederhosen and tutus, WWE wrestler to opossum costumes, competing for top honors. Registration for the costume contest was first come, first served, in person just before the races.
The four-day festival closed out Sunday, Oct. 4.
For more information, visit www.cullmanoktoberfestival.com.
