Archie is the new King after the Batavia Downs Wiener Dog races on Sunday afternoon during Family Fun Day at the Downs. After 6 heats, one year old Archie came out on top with just under 50 dogs participating today. “He’s never been around so many wiener dogs before, so we were really worried he’d be too stressed out,” says owner Gregg Richards.
First, second and third place winners received a free night at the Batavia Downs Hotel, FreePlay and a free dinner for two.
Video of Wiener Dog Races final heat-September 21, 2025
The community came out to the Downs and enjoyed pony rides, pumpkin decorating, face painting and picking out a pumpkin to take home, along with the Wiener Dog races.
“What a great day. People had so much fun at the pony rides, everyone got their pumpkins, we had four face painters and the balloon artist and an unbelievable magician keeping people entertained. I love that we’re doing this for the kids and the community, it’s just a really nice thing,” says Ryan Hasenauer, Vice President of Business Development at Batavia Downs.
First place winner Archie with owner Gregg Richards of Victor, NY and Thurman Thomas (left) and Ryan Hasenauer (right), Vice President of Business Development at Batavia Downs.
Second place winner Pippa with owner Kristen Ferrell along with Thurman Thomas (left) and Ryan Hasenauer (right), Vice President of Business Development at Batavia Downs.
Third place winner Oscar with owner Dena Ladanza and Thurman Thomas
Some dogs were not into racing today and decided to not leave the start line
18-year-old Frank N Beans took his time and eventually made it to the finish line and was acknowledged for his efforts.
Whipped cream was enticing for some dogs.
Pippa loves to run
Pippa to the finish line
Archie gets cheers for his first-place win in the final heat