PHOTOS: Hamster and Gerbil Races at Fluegel’s

The fur was flying at this year’s Hamster and Gerbil Races, held at Fluegel’s Farm, Garden and Pet as part of Rosemount Leprechaun Days. With standing room only, it was a well-attended and popular event with 42 heats (races), each with three contestants.

Some of the young competitors brought their own pets, but the
majority rented high-energy hamsters or gerbils (complete with drag racers) provided by Fluegel’s, each for 25 cents. Proceeds went to Amazing Animal Advocates, a nonprofit animal rescue organization.

Families, friends and fans watched as some rodents stayed stubbornly in place, while others scampered quickly – in the wrong direction. Loud cheering erupted from the crowd for the clever little creatures that took off toward the finish line.

“They [my kids] didn’t do this last year. I’m glad they came out this year,” said Monica Bayer of Rosemount, whose daughter, Sara, had a hasty hamster that scurried to first place. “It’s pretty organized. Everyone’s doing a good job.”