The Indianapolis Motor Speedway will experience a different kind of roar this April – and the origins of these sounds will be four-legged rather than four-wheeled. The 10th annual Mutt Strut, presented by Harrison College, is April 27, giving participants the opportunity to walk the famous 2.5 -mile oval traveled by motor racing superstars.
This event is the largest annual fundraiser for the Humane Society of Indianapolis. Money raised will help the non-profit organization fulfill its vision of ensuring that Central Indiana animals are treated with dignity and respect and live free from cruelty, harm and neglect. Each year the organization cares for more than 6,000 animals. Fundraising events like Mutt Strut are vital to IndyHumane, as the organization receives no public or private government funding.
Last year more than 6,000 people attended Mutt Strut, which has been named the Best Charitable Event in Indianapolis by NUVO readers for the last four years.
“Mutt Strut will truly be the greatest spectacle in dog walking this year,” says John Aleshire, CEO of the Indy Humane Society of Indianapolis. “Whether you attend with or without a dog; if you walk the whole track or just the 1-mile short course; there’s something for animal lovers and sports enthusiasts alike at Mutt Strut.”
Opening Ceremonies begin at 10:45 am. The Bert Show Crew will be Grand Marshals this year. Honorary co-chairs include Kalen Irsay, Vice Chair/Owner of the Indianapolis Colts and Graham Rahal, IndyCar driver and avid animal lover. Local singer/songwriter Jennie DeVoe will sing the National Anthem, and the 2013 Indy 500 Pace Car will drive an opening lap around the Track. Gates at the Speedway open to the public at 9:30 am, and the track opens to walkers at 11 a.m. The track will remain open until 3 p.m.
Online registration for this year’s event ends April 24, at noon, but participants can also register the day of the event at the track. Full details are available at indymuttstrut.org.
