About 60 dogs participate in Weiner Nationals

Four-year-old Isabella Hailey called the winner of Weiner Nationals during one of the first heats.

Lendra Hailey said her great niece watched Sasha belt toward her owner Robert Bruhn in the second heat and yelled out “She’s going to win!”

Isabella was right. After two years of racing in the competition, which is only for purebred Dachshunds, Sasha took first place during the event Saturday at Hillcrest Park.

Bruhn, 14, and his mother, Tammy Coldren, both of Clovis, weren’t even sure they were going to attend the event for a third year in a row, let alone if 3-year-old Sasha was going to participate as a competitor rather than a spectator.

“We decided to come out, and she did what she was supposed to do,” Coldren said.

Coldren said Sasha had a few test runs on the course before the race but no other preparation.

“It’s kind of silly but fun too,” Bruhn said of the event.

About 500 people cheered for the weiner dogs through out eight heats and the finals.

“I’m kind of shocked she did so well,” Bruhn said, laughing.

Bruhn said he’s looking forward to the all-expense paid trip to the national finals in San Diego, having never been farther from home than Albuquerque. Sasha’s owners also received a $250 first prize.

Each heat began with Mayor Gayla Brumfield yelling “Ready, set, go!”

“It’s a great day for family to come out and have a great time on a beautiful day in the park,” Brumfield said.

The event was hosted by the local Der Weinerschnitzel and Mix 101.5. Duffy Moon with Mix 101.5 said 60 weiner dogs tried for the top spot in the third annual event.

Clarissa Lacey of Portales came out with her three weiner dogs to watch. Lacey said she was surprised at how many people have Dachshunds in the area when she moved here two years ago.

“It’s great for people who love and appreciate weiner dogs,” she said.