Vilnius Hosts Largest Corgi Race Yet

In Vilnius, Lithuania, the speed of short-legged corgis takes center stage as 150 of them gather for an international race celebration. Apart from running, corgis also participate in events like a costume parade, a ‘best nose’ contest, and, notably, a barking competition.

The fifth edition of the Corgis Race in Vilnius took place at Vingis Park on Saturday. Organizers noted that this year was the largest event so far, with participants from Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Estonia, Germany, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, the United States, and the United Kingdom, a country deeply associated with the breed that Queen Elizabeth II famously adored.

“In the first year, we gathered 40 corgis from one city,” stated organizer Edvinas Miskas. “This year, we have 150 from nine countries, and for the first time, a participant from where the breed originated.” He added, “We call Vilnius the European capital of corgis, and when people from the homeland of the breed start coming to us, rather than the other way around, that title becomes more meaningful.”

Ninety-four dogs competed in the main racing event, going through qualifiers, semifinals, and then the final. In the final, which pitted the dogs against each other over a 25-meter (82 feet) course, the winner was GG, short for Gustave the Girl Dog, representing the United States. Another American participant, Mr. Corgington, took a close second place, while Lithuanian competitor Moka, a two-time past champion, claimed third.

The event showcased other talents beyond speed. A costume parade featured 38 corgis in various outfits, including a dinosaur costume and a sportswear ensemble. The show-stealer Amigo impressed both the jury and the public on Facebook with his gentlemanly attire.

In the ‘best nose’ challenge, dogs searched for hidden treats. The win was shared by Latvian corgis Tora and Rusty. There was also a loudest bark competition. Duke, a 12-year-old pembroke welsh corgi from Sedbergh, northwest England, didn’t join the main race due to his age but aimed to excel in barking, having trained his whole life, according to his owner. However, the loudest bark title went to Mr. Corgington.

Mr. Corgington was one of the furthest-traveling competitors. The event gave him a chance for a rematch after finishing second to GG in a major race at Emerald Downs in Auburn, Washington, which was GG’s second consecutive victory there.

Half of the corgis at Vilnius were newcomers. Yet, six veterans, including costume winner Amigo, Foksas, Foksis, Madeira, Bulka, and Dziugas, have attended every edition of the race.