VILNIUS, Lithuania (AP) - In a delightful display of canine charm and competition, 150 corgis gathered for the fifth annual Corgi Race Vilnius, held in the picturesque Vingis Park in the heart of the Lithuanian capital on Saturday. This year's edition was reported to be the largest yet, featuring participants from nine different countries, including Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Estonia, Germany, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, the United States, and Britain, which holds a special connection to the breed, made famous by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Organizer Edvinas Miskas expressed pride in the event's growth since its inception, noting, "In the first year, we gathered 40 corgis from one city. This year, it’s 150 from nine countries, and for the first time we have a participant from the place where the breed originated.” Miskas proudly proclaimed Vilnius as the “European capital of corgis,” emphasizing the significance of hosting participants from the breed’s homeland.
The main event featured 94 corgis competing in various stages, including qualifiers, semifinals, and culminated in a final race over a distance of 25 meters (82 feet). The standout competitor was GG, also known as Gustave the Girl Dog, who emerged victorious. Close behind was Mr. Corgington, another contender from the United States, with Lithuania's own Moka placing third, having previously won the title twice.
However, the Corgi Race Vilnius was not merely about speed. The event offered a variety of activities that showcased the unique talents of the dogs and their owners. One of the highlights was a costume parade featuring 38 corgis dressed in creative outfits ranging from a dinosaur suit and formal attire to sporty dog gear. The costume contest was won by a corgi named Amigo, who charmed both the four-judge panel and the public with a knight-inspired ensemble.
Another entertaining segment was the “smartest nose” challenge, where dogs hunted for hidden treats. The competition ended in a tie, with Latvian corgis Tora and Rusty sharing the top spot. The event also included a contest for the loudest bark, which was won by Mr. Corgington, although a 12-year-old Pembroke Welsh corgi named Duke from Sedbergh, England, was a sentimental favorite. Although Duke did not compete in the main race due to his age, his owner humorously mentioned that he had trained for this barking competition his entire life.
Mr. Corgington, a seasoned competitor, was one of the most traveled corgis at the event. He had previously faced GG in a major race at Emerald Downs in Auburn, Washington, where she secured her second consecutive victory. This additional context added to the excitement surrounding the main race in Vilnius.
This year's Corgi Race also saw a notable influx of first-time participants, with half of the registered corgis making their debut. However, six seasoned veterans were in attendance, having participated in every iteration of the race: costume winner Amigo, Foksas, Foksis, Madeira, Bulka, and Dziugas.
The Corgi Race Vilnius has become an essential event for dog lovers and a celebration of this beloved breed, highlighting the joyous spirit of competition and community among both pet owners and their adorable corgi companions.
