If the Liberals' Steve Martin takes Indi this Saturday, Izzy the dachshund could be the next 'Paul the Octopus'.
The idea of the 'sausage dog democracy dash' was cooked up in the Wodonga Turf Club committee office, inspired by the tentacled oracle that guessed the outcomes of seven World Cup matches.
The dash to promote the Jack Maher Classic Race Day represented all seven candidates in the Indi race.
The 'orange army' dachshund burst out of the gates but, unfortunately for Helen Haines, in the wrong direction.
Six-year-old Izzy in blue had a clear run home with only one other contender, for the Nationals, making it over the finish line.
Mr Martin hoped it was a good omen.
"There was a bit of conjecture among the candidates as to whether you wanted to use your luck up today or on Saturday," he said.
"So I'm hoping it won't be my only win for the week."
Wodonga and District Turf Club general manager Tom O'Connor said Saturday's race day would feature a seven-race program and an annual luncheon supporting the Belvoir Special School.
"Sam Groth is the guest speaker and he will help generate some fundraising for the school," he said.
"In previous years we've helped with funding towards the school's playground and their life skills house.
"On average we've raised around $20,000, so we're hoping we'll have another good result.
Mr O'Connor hoped Tuesday's event would not be the last 'democracy dash' to happen at the racecourse.
"The concept is there and the Albury-Wodonga Dachshund Group has been fantastic, so we'll keep a relationship with them," he said.
