MEADOWLANDS RACETRACK WIENER DOG DERBY TO BE BROADCAST ON ESPN2

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ -- July 23, 2026 -- The Meadowlands Racetrack is proud to announce that its 2026 Wiener Dog Derby will be broadcast on ESPN 2 and ESPN streaming platforms this Summer.

ESPN8, The Ocho, is back for its 10th and most action-packed programming, taking over ESPN platforms from Thursday, Aug. 6, through Sunday, Aug. 9, with 74.5 hours of thrilling, unexpected, and unconventional sports. 

Opening night, Thursday, August 6, kicks off with furry free-spirited fun, including our 8^th annual Wiener Dog Derby. The 30-minute broadcast is scheduled for 9 pm. This is the first year the popular Ocho programming has broadcast wiener dog races.

“Our Wiener Dog Derby has taken on a life of its own; each year it gets bigger and bigger and draws more participants and larger crowds,” said Rachel Ryan, Director of Marketing and Onsite Events.

“This event has certainly brought new people out to our venue. For many participants, this is their first time at the Meadowlands and their first time watching a harness race. These oddball, fun events bring new eyes to the Meadowlands Racetrack and harness racing. When people have fun at the track, they come back, and that is our goal.”

Jason Settlemoir, COO/GM of the Meadowlands Racetrack, was ecstatic when he was told of ESPN’s interest in the event. “We thank ESPN for taking notice of our Wiener Dog Derby; it was totally unexpected that they would want to broadcast one of our promotional events. These summer promos are designed to attract casual or non-racing fans to our venue. Getting coverage on ESPN and its platforms is exciting.”

The full ESPN Ocho press release with programming details can be read here -https://espnpressroom.com/press-release/espn8-the-ocho-returns-for-its-10th-anniversary-august-6-9/

Set your DVRs, Thursday, August 6, ESPN2 9 pm – The Meadowlands Racetrack Wiener Dog Derby.