Corgi Cup returns to Saratoga Race Course on Sunday, August 16
The cutest show on dirt returns to Saratoga Race Course on Sunday, August 16, when the Spa will host the second annual Corgi Cup, bringing together dozens of spirited Corgis from across the country for an afternoon of racing, entertainment and family-friendly fun.
Following the overwhelming success of the newly introduced event in 2025, this year's Corgi Cup will feature participants representing nine states and the District of Columbia, including inaugural champion Sam, who returns to Saratoga to defend his title.
Competition on Sunday begins with five qualifying heats, including a "Maiden Special Weight" race exclusively for first-time Corgi competitors. The qualifying events will take place after the first, third and fifth thoroughbred races of the afternoon. The top two finishers from each qualifying heat will advance to the 10-dog championship showdown, scheduled to take place after the seventh race.
The winning Corgi will once again be celebrated in the Saratoga winner's circle and crowned the 2026 Corgi Cup champion.
An enthusiastically received addition to last year’s special events lineup, this year’s encore edition offers even more opportunities for fans to connect with this popular breed featuring short legs and big personalities in a celebration of the Corgi community.
New for 2026 is the "Abbey" Fan Favorite Award, created in honor and memory of Abbey, the wheelchair Corgi whose joyful spirit captured the hearts of fans during last year's Corgi Cup. Voting will take place on NYRA's social media channels.
Also debuting this year is the NYRA Bets Speed Trial Champion competition. Throughout the afternoon, Corgis will have the opportunity to compete in a timed 20-yard dash located in the backyard near the Big Red Spring. The fastest recorded time will earn the NYRA Bets Speed Trial Champion award.
All fans in attendance will receive a commemorative Corgi Cup pin, featuring a festive design in celebration of the 2026 Corgi Cup, free with paid admission, while supplies last.
All participating Corgis will enjoy treats from Saint Rocco’s, named after the patron saint of canines. Founded in Pennsylvania and now available in more than 1,500 stores nationwide, Saint Rocco’s Treats will be tabling on-site at Saratoga on Corgi Cup Day.
Highlighted by the 157th renewal of the Grade 1, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers on Saturday, August 29, the Saratoga summer meet continues through Labor Day with racing conducted on Wednesdays through Sundays. The only exception is the final week when the summer meet concludes on Monday, September 7.
General admission tickets to Saratoga Race Course for the Corgi Cup are just $7 when purchased in advance at NYRA.com/Tickets.
For more information about Saratoga Race Course, visit NYRA.com.
