A heartwarming spectacle unfolded at Musselburgh Racecourse as corgis raced for victory in the annual Corgi Derby — an event dedicated to the memory of Queen Elizabeth II, who adored the breed throughout her reign.
In a race that saw four-legged contenders dashing with determination, the crowd cheered as the canine athletes showcased their speed in the iconic race, which has become a unique tradition in Britain.
A Royal Tradition Revived
The Corgi Derby was established in 2022 to honor Queen Elizabeth II’s 70-year reign. As one of the most well-known dog lovers in the world, the Queen’s affection for corgis spanned decades. She owned nearly 30 corgis during her lifetime, alongside several dorgis — a hybrid of corgi and dachshund.
This event has quickly become a tribute to the late monarch, with corgi owners and enthusiasts from all over Britain gathering to see these beloved dogs race. Each year, the race brings together a joyful celebration of the breed and its royal connection, attracting hundreds of spectators, many donning outfits in honor of the Queen’s legacy.
Juno’s Stunning Victory
In a thrilling display of speed and agility, four-year-old Juno emerged as the winner of this year’s Corgi Derby. The race, covering a distance of 230 feet (70 meters), was filled with excitement as the 16 contestants sprinted down the track. Juno, though trailing behind for much of the race, made a daring surge in the final stretch to clinch victory over last year’s champion, Rodney.
The race was as much about fun as it was about competition, with each dog sporting bright, festive sweaters that added to the colorful atmosphere of the event. Juno’s impressive comeback thrilled the crowd and cemented her place as the latest four-legged hero of the derby.
A Royal Award Ceremony
The joy of victory was palpable as Juno and her owners, Alisdair Tew and Fran Brandon, received their well-deserved trophy. The award ceremony was graced by none other than Judy Murray, tennis coach and mother of Scottish tennis star Andy Murray, who presented the winners with the trophy and dog treats.
Tew, reflecting on Juno’s win, told the BBC that her training involved a mix of dedication and playful moments. “We trained her for this last year,” he explained, “but this year, we just resorted to letting her chase things — particularly seagulls — on Portobello Beach in Edinburgh.”
While it might sound like an unconventional training method, Juno’s love for chasing seagulls clearly gave her the edge on race day.
A Growing Tradition
The Corgi Derby has quickly become a staple in Britain’s sporting calendar. Its playful nature, combined with its royal connections, has captured the hearts of people across the UK and beyond. What began as a tribute to the Queen’s love for corgis has now grown into an annual event that celebrates the bond between dogs and humans, while also highlighting the unique charm of one of the world’s most beloved breeds.
As the crowd roared for Juno’s victory, it was clear that the Corgi Derby has firmly established itself as a fun, feel-good event that will continue to attract attention for years to come.
