Rescue Bulldog From Iowa Falls Takes Crown at Drake Contest

Drake University's 47th Annual Beautiful Bulldog Contest brought community members together this week to celebrate a beloved Iowa tradition. This year, a rescue dog from Iowa Falls took home the top prize, proving that second chances matter. Flora, a seven-year-old English Bulldog, beat out dozens of competitors to kick off the 2026 Drake Relays.

A Proud Iowa Tradition

For more than four decades, the Beautiful Bulldog Contest has served as the official opening event for the Drake Relays. It's a staple of the Des Moines community, drawing crowds who appreciate the charm and personality of the breed. The Relays themselves are a major track and field event, bringing national athletes and fans to Iowa every year.

Getting into the bulldog contest requires a bit of luck and personal responsibility. Bulldogs must enter a lottery, from which only 24 finalists and 10 alternates are selected. The rules are strict. Only living English Bulldogs can compete, excluding French, American, and Olde English Bulldogs. Owners must also provide proof of up-to-date vaccinations, including rabies, distempler, parvovirus, and Bordetella. Households with multiple dogs must have a separate handler aged 18 or older for each animal, ensuring proper control and safety.

Flora's Story of Second Chances

This year's winner, Flora, captured the crowd's attention with more than just her stylish blue dress adorned with a glittering Drake