WDOD-FM, 96.5 The Mountain, will celebrate Cinco de Mayo on Wednesday with the third annual Running of the Chihuahuas.
With 96 competitors set to see who the fastest Chihuahua in Chattanooga is,, "the third year of this homegrown event is setting up to be the biggest yet," said station manager Danny Howard.
The winning Chihuahua will receive a prize package and custom-designed crown from Bone Apetit, a gift certificate from Groomingdales, a gift certificate from Rio Picante Mexican Bar and Grill, a Lookouts skybox experience and the golden Chihuahua trophy from The Plaque Shack.
After last year's turnout exceeded expectations, the race has been moved to a larger venue, First Tennessee Pavilion.
"My dream of one day holding this event at the Bristol Motor Speedway will soon become reality," joked event organizer Brad Steiner, afternoon on-air personality.
"The first year, on six days' notice, we had 26 entries and made (CNN's) 'Headline News,' " he said.
That first event was held in the station's parking lot on South Broad Street. Last year, the number had more than doubled, and organizers moved the event to the Inn at Wolftever, a luxury pet hotel on Highway 58.
A portion of the proceeds from vendor sales, including beer from Corona, the event sponsor, will be donated to McKamey Animal Care and Adoption Center. Registration has closed to competitors.
IF YOU GO
n What: Running of the Chihuahuas.
n When: 4 p.m. Wednesday.
n Where: First Tennessee Pavilion, 1826 Carter St.
n Admission: Free.
n Phone: 321-6200.