Discussions

While Horse Racing was the most popular in Brandon, Dog Racing was arguably the most unusual. This was a winter event, which was always held on New Years Day.  
 
The Races were started by Mr. D. Anson Reesor, the jeweller and Mr. Art McLean.  
 
In 1911 at the height of their popularity over 2000 people yelled themselves hoarse when they cheered on the dogs as they raced down Rosser Avenue.  
 
The dogs would bolt, collide and run away, while pulling hand sleighs, which were crudely designed sleds made with soap boxes, and tomato can bodies.  
 
Children drove these miniature Rigs, and would seat themselves with concentration, strain and tension on their faces, just like the jockey’s of the adult Trotters and Paces.  
 
At one 1911 dog race that is reported in print, Willie Coopers dog “Nell” came in first in the single dog race, and Mr. W. J. Cowan’s pair Sport and Jack won both the Tandem and the Team Event.  
 
Source: Brandon A City. G. E. Barker.