The 'Muhammad Ali of Wiener Racing,' Baron Passes

One Handsome Smooth

Our hearts go out to the family and friends of 'Baron,' the "Muhammad Ali of Wiener Racing," after hearing of his passing on October 3rd.  The Placentia, California native was just a month shy of his 18th birthday.  Excerpt from the OC Register:

Baron, a mahogany, standard dachshund who made numerous television appearances during his racing career – including two on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno" – died at home last week.

Even with winning the 1997 Wiener Nationals, 1998 Champion of Champions, and 1999 Ultimate Challenge at the Los Alamitos Race Course, Rowland said he will remember his dog's greatest accomplishment as being a wonderful pet and companion.

Ron Rowland and his wife, Betty, bought Baron from a Northern California breeder when he was 14 weeks old. The Placentia couple didn't intend to race Baron when they bought him, but quickly realized their dog had the gift of speed.

Weighing in at 35 pounds, Baron trained at Champion's Park in Placentia and the Yorba Linda Community Center.

Baron was featured on numerous television programs during his career. His last major appearance was in the 2008 documentary "Wiener Takes All."

Read more and see lots of photos of this Wiener Champ at the OC Register.  Watch him run at his official website.

'The tremendous heart and courage Baron displayed throughout his life not only helped him win races, but also helped him tackle his later years with grace and dignity,' his owner, Ron Rowland wrote.