The Corgi Derby, a beloved celebration of one of Britain's most iconic dog breeds, returned to Musselburgh Racecourse on Saturday, April 19, 2025, marking its fourth annual event. This year’s race paid tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II, who was known for her affection towards Corgis, and coincided with the ongoing celebrations of her Platinum Jubilee.
The event kicked off at noon, with 17 enthusiastic Corgis racing along a 70-meter track. Among the competitors were two previous champions, Rodney, the 2023 Champion Corgi, and Georgie Rumbles, the top prizewinner from 2022. The excitement was palpable as the dogs lined up, ready to showcase their speed and charm.
Judy Murray, a well-known tennis coach and star of Strictly Come Dancing, raised the starting flag, adding a touch of celebrity glamour to the festivities. The atmosphere was electric, with spectators eagerly anticipating which Corgi would take home the coveted title this year.
Among the participants was Juno, who ultimately raced to victory, much to the delight of his owner, Fran Brandon. Juno was awarded a trophy in a celebratory moment that highlighted the joy of the day. "It’s wonderful to see so many people come out to support these amazing dogs," said Brandon, beaming with pride as Juno basked in the attention.
The Corgi Derby was not only a highlight for dog lovers but also a part of Musselburgh’s Easter Saturday race day celebrations. The day featured additional events, including the Mini Queen’s Cup, where children raced on Happy Hoppers, and a high-stakes £300,000 seven-race card that began at 1:50 PM.
The After-Racing Party, hosted by local radio personality Callum Gallacher, was open to all racegoers and kept the festive spirit alive for an hour following the last race, which concluded at 5:17 PM. Gallacher expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, "It’s a fantastic day for families and dog lovers alike, and we’re thrilled to be part of it!"
As the Corgis dashed down the track, each one brought its own unique personality to the race. Rodney, described by his owners Matt Kendall and Nicole Whiteside as “always hungry, always smiling,” was a crowd favorite. Meanwhile, Georgie Rumbles, a four-year-old Welsh Corgi, was noted for her playful mischief, adding a layer of excitement to the competition.
Local interest was high with the entry of Merlin, a Corgi often seen patrolling the lagoons next to the racecourse. His owners, Sam Benson and Andrew Marks, affectionately described him as a “shameless flirt,” and were hopeful he would perform well on race day.
Chester Barkington, who traveled from North Yorkshire to compete, was another contender to watch. His owners, Rhiannon Lister and Mike Kilroy, noted that he enjoys sampling various foods and has a penchant for water. “He’s a character, and we’re just excited to be here,” they said.
Another interesting competitor was Nash, who was described by her owner Thomas Wilson as “a zoomy wee legend who is incredibly fast and always smiling.” Nash’s cheerful demeanor endeared her to many spectators, who cheered her on as she raced.
Pennybun, another participant, had more modest expectations. Her owner, Xander Elliards, humorously remarked that while her enthusiasm was guaranteed, victory might be a “long shot.” He added that Pennybun resembles a plump little mushroom, which made her all the more adorable to the crowd.
Aisling Johnston, the head of Marketing and Business Development at Musselburgh Racecourse, expressed her excitement about the event. “Just like the equine entries in our seven flat races on Virgin Bet Easter Saturday, our famous Corgi Derby has attracted a top-class field and leading trainers from all over the UK. Our 17 Corgis will be going to great lengths to be crowned Champion Corgi, and racing and dog fans alike would be barking mad to miss out on this unique event,” she said.
The Corgi Derby has quickly become a cherished tradition since its inception in 2022, when it was first launched to commemorate Queen Elizabeth's Jubilee Year. The event not only honors the late monarch's love for Corgis but also fosters a sense of community among dog lovers and families.
As the day unfolded, it was clear that the Corgi Derby had successfully created a joyful atmosphere filled with laughter, excitement, and camaraderie. Spectators cheered for their favorite dogs, while families enjoyed the various activities and races throughout the day.
In a world increasingly focused on digital distractions, events like the Corgi Derby remind us of the simple joys found in community gatherings and shared experiences. The blend of competition, celebration, and the love for Corgis brought people together in a heartwarming way.
As the dust settled on another successful Corgi Derby, the event left behind memories of wagging tails, happy owners, and the spirit of fun that will surely carry on into next year’s race. With the success of this year’s event, anticipation is already building for the next Corgi Derby, promising yet another delightful celebration of this beloved breed.
