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Olympic Ski Race Interrupted by Escaped Dog
21 Feb
Summary
- A Czechoslovakian wolfdog named Nazgul escaped his home during an Olympic race.
- The dog's owner only realized his escape upon seeing him on television.
- Race officials caught the dog twice after he briefly disrupted the event.
A surprising and lighthearted incident occurred during a Winter Olympics cross-country skiing qualifying event when a dog, Nazgul, a two-year-old Czechoslovakian wolfdog, managed to enter the racecourse.
His owner, Alice Varesco, who lives near the venue, was watching the competition on television and was stunned to see her pet running across the finish line. Varesco had believed Nazgul was securely kenneled at their home, making his appearance on the course unfathomable until friends sent her video clips.
Race officials eventually apprehended Nazgul, leading him away to applause from spectators. However, the canine's adventure wasn't over as he briefly slipped his handler's grasp once more before being secured for a second time. Organizers were understanding, and Nazgul was safely returned to his relieved owner.
The incident, while causing momentary surprise and a brief safety concern for some athletes, ultimately became a memorable and amusing moment of the Games. Nazgul even received an unofficial photo finish time from Omega.
