DES MOINES, Iowa — An English Bulldog owned by Katie and John Mooney, of Mercer Island, was named runner-up Sunday in the 38th annual Beautiful Bulldog Contest at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa.
"It was amazing to come in second place," Katie Mooney said. "But the main thing was how much fun we had. It's a great event in a great community."
More than 1,200 spectators watched in Drake's Knapp Center, and another 4,000 watched live online as Lola received her accolades, slapping a high-five with John Mooney.
Prudence, a two-and-a-half year old bulldog from Des Moines Iowa, ultimately won the contest's famed cape, crown, and throne.
Drake University Student Body President Thalia Anguiano, one of four judges, was immediately smitten with Prudence. "I thought, 'Wow, there's a gorgeous bulldog,'" she said. "Then I had a chance to pet her during the first round of judging, and there's just something about her face: She's the most beautiful bulldog ever."
"Her full name is Prudence Grace With The Precious Face, because when she looks at you with her big brown eyes, you just can't resist her," owner Angela Miller said.
Judges issued a total of nine awards during the contest, including:
Family Theme: Beef, owned by Emily Mettenburg of Ames, Iowa
Drake Spirit and Porterhouse People's Choice: Sweet Sassy Molassey, owned by Janalyn Phillips of Waukee, Iowa
Rescue Dog Recognition: Max, owned by Katrina Shain of Sullivan, Ill.
Mr. Congeniality: Clyde, owned by Stephanie Prescott of Ankeny, Iowa
Best Dressed: Maude, owned by Mike Poll of Algonquin, Ill.
Second Runner Up: Brutus, owned by Joe Fields of Grimes, Iowa
First Runner Up: Lola, owned by Katie Mooney of Mercer Island, Wash.
Most Beautiful Bulldog: Prudence, owned by Tom and Angela Miller of Des Moines, Iowa
Drake's official live mascot, Griff, hosted a "Griff Gives Back" pet food drive in conjunction with the contest. Contest spectators and supporters of the university donated more than 5,100 pounds of adult dog and cat food, all of which supports The Pet Project Midwest, a nonprofit organization that raises works to keep animals in their homes and out of shelters.