Drake seeks most ‘beautiful bulldog’ for relays mascot

To kick off its 114-year-old Drake Relays on April 21, the Des Moines university is holding its 45th annual “beautiful bulldog contest” — with the winning glowering canine earning a yearlong reign as the Drake Relays mascot.

A panel of judges will pick the champion from among 30 contestants that’ll walk a pageant "pup-way“ — giving the pets a chance to perform tricks and show off their best mean mugs for the cameras.

In addition to crowning a top dog and official mascot, judges will choose winners in categories like best dressed, people’s choice and most Drake spirit.

To earn a spot on the runway, bulldogs must enter a lottery asking owners to submit information like their bulldog’s name, social media handle and other fun facts about their personalities.

Registration remains open until March 11, and the livestreamed lottery for the 30 contestants and 10 alternates will take place at 4 p.m. March 13 at Drake University.

Last year’s winner — a 2-year-old rescue named “Patch” from Johnston — “delighted the judges when she strutted down the runway in her custom jean jacket featuring a Drake University patch sewn into the fabric,” according to a university announcement.

Upon being named most beautiful bulldog, the winner is crowned and given a seat upon a throne.

Vanessa Miller covers higher education for The Gazette.

Comments: (319) 339-3158; vanessa.miller@thegazette.com