St. Joseph’s Church Parish in Sentul, got this rare opportunity to experience the sheer enchantment of a truly memorable event which took place in our Church grounds on the 28th of May 2023, after morning Mass.

Sixteen dogs, representing various BEC’s turned up all excited and eager to participate in this race, under 3 different categories – small, medium and large. The event, headed by Victoria,  was organized by the Family Day committee, this being one of the pre-events,  conducted in our parish to commemorate Family Day which will take place on the 16th of September 2023.

The competition began with a special blessing graced by our Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Frederick Joseph, where each dog received a blessing, followed by sprinkling of Holy Water. What a sight it was to see all these canines standing obediently by their owners, many barking in excitement, others mingling with their own canine friends while enjoying the attention of the many spectators who were equally eager to give them a good old scrub on their backs and obliging heads. 

When the races began – the dogs were only too excited to dash to the line and back alongside their owners, many who took the advantage of the Catechetical holiday to run with their pets. Many charged, others, who just wished to sniff around,  had to be dragged by their competitive owners while 2 huskies decided they just wanted to break free, causing a panic but their owner, Shameeita had them under control.

A special mention ought to be made to Father’s Princess who bagged the fastest dog award for the large category.

By the end of the event, we were all filled with dopamine levels that made us forget the heat ever existed.

The love and companionship shared between humans and dogs echoed the spirit of mission, community, and participation.

This is our first ever (but definitely not our last) St Joseph’s Church dog race.

By Daphne Isabella Devadas

Photo album

Competition Results