Ludivine, an adventurous dog, became an unexpected competitor in the Elkmont Trackless Train Half Marathon in Canada, after being let outside for a quick potty break. Instead of just doing her business, Ludivine decided to join the runners and ended up running most of the race, finishing an impressive 7th place!
Ludivine, a police dog known for her curious nature, crawled under the park gate and made her way to the starting line. Despite being a little distracted along the way—stopping to sniff a dead rabbit around the two-mile mark—she powered through the course, even weaving her way around cows at one point.
The dog’s unexpected participation brought smiles to all the runners. Even though Ludivine was not technically a participant, she completed the race in about an hour and a half, having a blast the whole time. Her antics didn’t go unnoticed—her photos quickly circulated on the race's official Facebook page, where she was celebrated for her determination.
Ludivine was awarded a medal for her efforts, and her proud owner, April Hamlin, couldn’t have been happier. “I just opened the door, and she ran off on her own,” Hamlin told Runner's World magazine. “At first, I was worried she might get in the way of other runners, but she’s very friendly and laid-back, so I was surprised she actually ran the whole half marathon!”
Ludivine’s unplanned race took on a life of its own as she ran alongside the competitors. Jim Clemens, who finished fourth, shared his amusing experience. “Every time I thought she was heading back, I’d hear her coming back towards me, running past, sneaking off to explore streams or yards along the way.”
In the end, Ludivine not only completed the race but did so with flair and a medal to boot. Congratulations to this happy-go-lucky runner!
