BYU-Idaho Radio · American Dog Derby is excited to be back in Ashton
March 4, 1917 was a monumental day for the city of Ashton, Idaho, it being the first day the American Dog Derby was held. Since then, it has claimed its title as the oldest dog race in America.
John Scafe is an Ashton native and the derby’s race director. After two years of not being able to have the race in Ashton due to COVID-19, Scafe is excited to hold the derby in Ashton again.
“It’s just something that I feel Ashton benefits from and it’s something unique in this area and holds some historical value,” Scafe said.
The derby holds four different races in order to accommodate for the varying skill level of the teams. The longest race is about 24 miles.
The derby is a rich part of Ashton’s history. Scafe said the derby adds a lot of value to the town.
“(It’s) just to let people know that Ashton is there on the map as they go to West Yellowstone, Mesa Falls, Jackson Hole, and fishing area,” Scafe said.
Scafe encourages people to come out and enjoy the derby. He said the mushers, the drivers of the dog sleds, love to talk about their dogs with those who attend the derby.
Along with the dog races, they are holding snowshoe races for kids and a soup eating competition. Entry fee for the soup competition is $2, where you can get a meal and help judge the soups.
The derby will take place on Feb. 17 and 18, starting at 8:30 a.m. on 5th and Main Street.