Date set for award-winning Dirty Dog Challenge – get ready to get muddy!

 

Waikato District Council and Hamilton City Council are teaming up again for this unique event, to be held on Saturday 22 July in Ngaruawahia. 

 

The Dirty Dog Challenge is a 2.5km or 6km obstacle course that you do with your dog by your side. All profits from the event will go towards helping animals in Hamilton and Waikato District’s communities. 

 

“Whether you’re a keen runner, or you just want to walk, the aim of the event is to have fun with your furry friends,” says Animal Control Team Leader, Tracey Oakes. “Not only is it a fun event, by taking part you’ll be helping us support dogs in our communities.” 

 

Launched in 2018, the Dirty Dog Challenge has continued to grow in popularity. The event received a Merit Award in the Outstanding Event category at the 2022 Recreation Aotearoa awards, which recognise excellence and innovation in the recreation sector. 

 

Sue Stanford, Hamilton City Council Animal Education & Control Manager, says it’s great to offer an event that people can do with their dogs. 

 

“We know how much people love their dogs – so it’s nice to offer something they can enjoy together.” 

 

“Our first event had a total of 170 participants,” says Stanford. “Last year there were 383 dogs and 530 people walking, running, racing and rolling through the track together. Given the event’s popularity we encourage people to register early. We have a limit on numbers, so get in quick!”  

 

Money from the event will be used to help re-home Pound dogs and for Council’s desexing programmes, helping reduce the number of unwanted dogs in the community.