Small Dogs, Big Race Day at the Montpelier Hunt Races
While the steeplechase horses are the centerpiece of the Montpelier Hunt Races, some of the day's most unforgettable moments happen much closer to the ground, and much earlier in the morning. The Jack Russell Terrier Races and the Corgi Cup have become fan favorites, setting the tone for everything that follows with laughter, cheers, and the kind of memories that make you smile all the way home.
The First Race of the Day
At 10:15 a.m., before the horses break from the starting line, the terriers take the track.
The Jack Russell Terrier Races are the first event of the day, and they do not disappoint. These small dogs carry outsized spirit: fearless, fast, and completely unpredictable. Whether they sprint straight to the finish line or decide mid-race that a friendly face in the crowd is worth a detour, the terriers never fail to entertain. Their energy is infectious, and their enthusiasm is completely their own.
If you haven't seen a Jack Russell in full stride, this is reason enough to arrive early.
The Mr. Nibletts Memorial Cup
Among the terrier races, one stands apart. The Mr. Nibletts Memorial Cup honors a very special dog who raced at Montpelier for over a decade. When Mr. Nibletts passed, his owners endowed a trophy in his memory: a race dedicated to senior dogs. It is always a crowd pleaser, and it carries something that few moments on race day can match: genuine tenderness for an animal who earned his place in this tradition. We are honored to remember that plucky little dog year after year.
The Corgi Cup Returns
Last year, the Corgi Cup made its debut, and it has already found a permanent place in the hearts of everyone who watched it.
With their short legs and larger-than-life personalities, corgis bring something entirely their own to the track. Some are actually quite fast, determined to reach the finish first, ears flat, legs a blur. Others get pleasantly distracted by a familiar face along the rail. An interesting race is guaranteed either way.
The canine competitions are proudly sponsored by Blue Ridge Bank, and they capture exactly the family-friendly atmosphere that has made race day at Montpelier a tradition worth passing down. Dog lovers, owners, and spectators of all ages find something to celebrate in those few minutes on the track.
Plan to Arrive Early
The terrier and corgi races begin at 10:15 a.m., and arriving early also helps you get ahead of traffic as the grounds fill in. Position yourself along the rail for one of the most entertaining traditions race day has to offer.
If you're thinking about entering your dog, only those officially credentialed can attend the Races. We love our pets, but please leave yours at home on race day. Entry information and ticketing can be found at https://www.montpelierraces.org/buy-tickets!
We'll see you on the grounds.
