Ball-Loving Bucky Zooms to Victory in Meadowlands Wiener Dog Derby
A sunny day, a packed racetrack, and 80 determined dachshunds set the scene for the 2025 Wiener Dog Derby at Meadowlands Racetrack. But it was Bucky, a two-year-old with a tennis ball obsession, who left paw prints on everyone’s heart. Held June 14 in East Rutherford, this annual event saw Bucky outrun his rivals and claim the crown.
Bucky crossed the 100-foot finish line with two competitors right on his tail. His focus never wavered, unlike last year when he veered off-course. This time, the ball-loving dachshund charged straight ahead and clinched the win, beating out 79 other participants.
However, owner Adriana Smith didn’t rely on strict training methods. Instead, she waited at the finish line holding Bucky’s favorite toy. That ball turned out to be the secret weapon. Bucky’s obsession with fetch kept his eyes locked forward through every heat.
Victory came with a reward. Bucky went home $500 richer, plus a dog-friendly ice cream and a bag of goodies. The frozen treat seemed like the bigger prize as Bucky licked it clean moments after his win.
Around 2,000 spectators filled the racetrack stands. Kids, parents, and dog lovers roared as the dachshunds bolted, tumbled, and occasionally wandered off.
Each race lasted seconds, but the excitement stayed high. The event featured eight heats, each about 30 feet long. Winners moved on to the 100-foot final, held between horse races.
Redemption At Last
Bucky’s win felt even sweeter because of his past performance. In 2024, he got distracted mid-race and wandered in circles. This time, he powered ahead with speed and confidence, a little help from his favorite ball and a whole lot of zoomies.
Once each heat started, the dogs were off leash, sprinting toward the finish line. Some went sideways. Others stopped to sniff the turf. But Bucky ran like he knew exactly what he came to do, which was rare among the competitors.
Derby / IG / Dogs who won their individual heats didn’t leave empty-pawed. Each earned a $100 betting voucher and a supply of snacks.
Adriana mentioned that Bucky’s love of swimming played a role. Strong back legs, fast reflexes, and daily zoom sessions in the backyard helped him build speed. The ball was the motivation, but his muscle memory kept him fast.
Even the slowpokes got applause. One dog stopped halfway to roll on its back. Another walked in the wrong direction entirely. Still, every dachshund got cheers and claps from the crowd, which stayed positive from the first heat to the final race.
Unlike the horse races sandwiching the dog derby, there were no odds or bets. But bragging rights mattered.
Adriana said the Smiths will return next year with Bucky in tow. They plan to train the same way, with backyard fetch and treats, then let Bucky’s legs do the talking.
This was the 7th annual derby, and each year brings more fans and faster dogs. The Meadowlands Racetrack keeps the mood light and the track tight. No matter who wins, everyone leaves smiling. Still, Bucky’s performance will be hard to top in 2026.