If you missed the most adorable stampede in Mississippi history, don’t worry, the cameras were rolling! Missy “Mama Justice” Wiggington and her team were recently featured on Main Street Stories, capturing all the low-to-the-ground action at the Mama Justice Starkville Derby.
The event, which has officially claimed the title of the world’s largest dachshund race, turned the streets of Starkville into a high-stakes arena of wagging tails and floppy ears.
More Than Just a Race
While Starkville is usually “Bulldog Country,” the dachshunds took over for a day of pure, unadulterated joy. With 315 racing pups and thousands of spectators, the energy was electric. But for Missy, the event is about more than just seeing which “wiener takes it all.” It’s about community, charity, and the bond between people and their pets.
As Missy told Main Street Stories:
“You will never go to anything more fun, more heartwarming. It’s just a beautiful experience.”
Event Highlights
The Derby wasn’t just a sprint to the finish line; it was a full-blown festival with a mission:
- A Grand Scale: Featuring 200 art vendors and a massive crowd that packed the city streets.
- The “Golden Weenie”: Pups competed in various heats, vying for the prestigious Golden Weenie trophies in categories like Fastest Dog, Best Costume, and Crowd Favorite.
- Racing for a Cause: The event serves as a major fundraiser for the Oktibbeha County Humane Society, ensuring that local shelter animals get the support and care they need.
- Special Guests: The track received an official blessing, and TikTok sensation Little Hot Dog Max made a celebrity appearance to cheer on the racers.
Watch the Action
You can see all the tail-wagging excitement and the interview with Missy by watching the full feature here:
Why We Love the Derby
It’s rare to find an event that balances “organized chaos” with such a sincere cause. Whether the dogs sprinted straight for the finish line or got distracted halfway through to make a new friend, the spirit of the day remained the same: supporting our four-legged friends and celebrating the community.
Missy and the Mama Justice team are already looking forward to next year. We hope to see you there! Are you planning on entering your own pup in next year’s race, or are you just going for the costumes?