By Katrina Elsken
Caloosa Belle Independent
LABELLE – Dachshund owners from as far away at Tampa were in LaBelle on Saturday, Oct. 21 for Howl-O-Ween & Lenny’s Downtown Doxie Dash.
The races attracted 35 Dachshunds, who raced in six age divisions, ranging from puppy to the “Footlong” category for dogs age 12 and older. In addition, the “Weenie Wannabe” category was open to dogs of any breed that fit in the racing boxes.
Dogs were placed in four starting boxes and ran on a grass track to their owners. The park’s famous oak trees provided shade to keep the racers comfortable.
Each heat had space for four racers. The two top finishers from the preliminary heats moved up to the next level of competition.
Race organizer Doug Daily was the announcer for the event. Doug and his wife have organized Dachshund races for 12 years. They started the races in North Fort Myers. When they moved to LaBelle, they brought the races with them.
The Howl-O-Ween event was organized by LaBelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation (LDRC). Proceeds from the event support current and future LDRC projects to increase the value of downtown LaBelle in its revitalization and beautification efforts, while providing a fun way for people to enjoy fall festivities with their pets.
In addition to the races, the event included a pet costume contest and presentation by Hendry County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Officers.
The Doxie Dash was renamed Lenny’s Doxie Dash in honor of Lenny LaForest, who in years past helped coordinate the event.
