The 15th annual Jack Russell Terrier races in St. Michaels on Sunday were a thundering success, with 54 dogs registered, hundreds of enthusiastic fans and over $3,400 raised to support the St. Michaels Community Food Bank.Spy Video by Mary Beth Hernandez
Known as “big dogs in little bodies,” the Jack Russell Terrier was bred for fox hunting and is known to be fearless, bold and energetic. These traits were on display Sunday at the Inn at Perry Cabin and the crowd roared in delight when the frisky terriers dashed through hay bales to reach the finish. There were few close races, however, as most dogs in all of the heats were more interested in each other than chasing down the 100-foot-long track to the end gates. Announcer Jon Mason kept a running commentary with jokes, and puns and reminded the crowd that the races “aren’t about speed, but about smarts.”
John and Bonnie Booth of St. Michaels founded this local event, and with the partnership of the Inn at Perry Cabin and dozens of volunteers, have created a St. Michaels fall favorite that grows with more dogs and bigger crowds each year. This year, Dr. Michael Coughlan of All Pets Veterinary Hospital in St. Michaels was on hand to supervise, answer questions and give perspective on breeds and traits. “That’s what we like about dachshunds, they’re party animals,” he quipped, as the dachshund heat sauntered down the green, like models on a runway. Another group was described as “sedate and cerebral,” as they wandered out the gate, looking around at the crowd, clearly confused about the goal.
After four beginner races in which the winners were coaxed through to the end, Marianne Yost was overheard yelling “Hey, that’s terrible cheating. You can’t shove your dog through the hole.” But the crowd was ready to move on. The show stealer was Beacon – a five time champion from McLean, Va., brought by – no joke – Jack Russell and his wife, Susan. Beacon managed to escape from the starting block as the other dogs in his heat were getting situated. He grabbed the “squirrel,” tore off down the field, and dived through the hay bale hole at the finish, as if to exclaim – “come on, dogs – this is how to do it!” The crowd went wild. Proudly, he skipped back down to the starting gate, turned around to run and win the race by a long call.
Winners received ribbons and treats courtesy of Flying Fred’s in St. Michaels.[slideshow id=41]
[…] Jack Russells race for ribbons and cheers at Inn at Perry Cabin The 15th annual Jack Russell Terrier races in St. Michaels on Sunday were a thundering success, with 54 dogs registered, hundreds of enthusiastic fans and over $3400 raised to support the St. Michaels Community Food … Source: talbotspy.com […]