http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/p ... 1001/RSS01
Pooches eat, dash, drill to be top dog
Canine Olympics put pets (and humans) through fun challenges.
By BILL REITER
REGISTER STAFF WRITER
June 8, 2006
Joey Iversen petted her black Russian terrier, Pirate, and smiled at the thought of Saturday's Second Annual Canine Olympics.
"Last year, Pirate lit the torch," Iversen said. "She'll be lighting it again this year."
The event that brings owners and dogs together for a little fun kicks off with registration at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Canine Craze Performance Center in Urbandale. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.
The festivities - including a human/dog pie-eating contest, barrel racing and obstacle course, among others - run until 1 p.m.
"We wanted to help people have fun with their dogs," said Iversen, co-owner of the performance center, which holds various dogs classes.
"It's time to spend with your dog, and everyone gets a medal."
Last year's event attracted more than 150 people and their pets, Iversen said.
"We expect quite a bit more, probably 200-plus," she said. If your dog responds when you call its name, you can enter.
The idea for the Canine Olympics came when Iversen and co-owner Scott Jetter decided Des Moines didn't have enough activities for people looking to spend time with their dogs.
"The coasts have lots more events with their dogs, and we wanted Des Moines more dog-friendly," she said.
So began the birth of the pooch smooch, tunnel dash and drill team, at least in Des Moines.
Also, most popular of all, the pie-eating contest.
"The pie-eating contest is the humans against their dogs," she said.
Humans get chocolate pudding and whip cream. Dogs get a pie made of dog food topped with whipped cream.
"We thought the dogs would win, but the humans won all of them last year," she said.
To see the dogs try to redeem themselves - or to participate in other events - call (515) 222-1112.