The face of the NYC Triathlon, Bean was a top competitor in 2008, finishing in fifth place. Although pundits have suggested that the boston terrier's black fur put her at a disadvantage last year, Bean will hear nothing of it, refusing to make excuses. In the offseason, she can be found doing speed work in Central Park's Harlem Hills or just hanging out eating Peppermint Patties-what a life!

Ever since she was rescued at the tender age of five weeks, Maalei has been beating the odds and defying those who doubt her. Last year, critics dismissed her as too small to challenge for the inaugural Doggy Dash title, but this seven-year old cocker spaniel has more power and speed than her frame would indicate. After finishing as the first runner up last year, Maalei and owner Melanie return to New York City with an eye on first place and a spot in the Doggy Dash pantheon of all-time greats.

Another two-time Doggy Dasher, Deuce finished sixth in 2008 and along with owner Harvey, plans to compete in the Iams Doggy Dash until victory is tasted. The three-year old chocolate lab is a therapy dog at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC, who assists service members recovering from devastating injuries. Although Deuce's selfless volunteer efforts garner most of the press ink, don't sleep on his athletic prowess--he's surely one to watch this summer.

Added security will be in place in 2009 for the throngs of adoring ladies that will flood NYC, hoping for a chance to meet Blue. But don't be fooled into thinking this five-year old black lab is all blue eyes and beer. No, this playboy has a great motor and fluid hips that allow him to excel in a wide array of sports, including hiking and stair running. He and his owner Bryan will lay it all on the line in July, because as we all know, to the victor go the spoils.
 

The last known official documentation of Beowulf's existence, this photo was snapped in early 2008 while the pooch was reportedly hunting sasquatch. Although very little is yet known of the 3-year old boxer, witnesses have described him as "quick, powerful, and relentless." Owner Nathan swears that although his dog might look intimidating, the only thing the other competitors have to fear is complete domination by the mighty Beowulf.

Before you get too cocky, just know that Danni's posing in one of those giant novelty chairs for this picture--she's actually a 120 pound behemoth. Okay maybe not, but this 1-year old Jack Russell/toy fox terrier is quick and athletic, and alongside her owner Sami, is a good bet to surprise the field this July. Just make sure you've got plenty of carrot cake waiting when she crosses the finish line.
 

After finishing just off the podiums in 2008, Josie has been the focus of a veritable media maelstrom amid reports of a possible return to NYC in 2009. Nevertheless, the 5-year old golden retriever has remained grounded, dedicated to her civic responsibilities: volunteering at the local animal hospital (pictured) and spreading the good word on her blog. But, don't mistake Josie's efforts for a lack of focus; she and owner Jeff fully intend to prove the attention is well deserved with a Doggy Dash victory in July.
 

In 2008, Skyler and owner Pamela spent their race weekend volunteering for all things NYC Tri. But for 2009, the allure of competition was simply too great for this seven-year old sheppard mix. Skyler and Pamela are in it to win it, but also hope to help burnish America's fitness image at the Doggy Dash this July!
 

A dog of many talents, Cookie's 11 months on this planet have been marked by excellence in running, swimming, and even singing. The golden retriever will look to parley one of these skills (try to guess which one) to a Doggy Dash title in July. There are also rumors that Cookie has signed on to accompany the brass band playing for athletes at the NYC Tri finish line.
 

Spencer the tree-walker coonhound: dog of mystery and international intrigue. Friends, enemies, and lovers say his blood smells of cologne, but this four-year old Long Island pup is no popinjay. He's a fierce competitor with a wirey frame and every intention of crossing the Iams Doggy Dash finish line in first place. And you can bet that he'll do it much more gracefully than his fellow canine competitors.
 

It was a rough 2008 for Kadi, who trained vigorously all year only to see her sister Maalei and owner Melanie take off to NYC to compete without her. With her feelings unhurt, the seven-year old cocker spaniel has made last year just another motivating tool as she aims to prove that it was the wrong dog competing in NYC last year.

Monty might look intense, but in reality this pooch is as laid back as they come. The seven-year old Norwegian elkhound is more than content to hang out on the couch, napping and watching reruns of Saved By the Bell alongside owner Kara. But don't take the nonchalance for a weekness; Monty's been training hard too, and this team will stop at nothing until they possess the Rembrandt cup in 2009.
 

Some have likened Jackson to Forrest Gump; others have dubbed him the canine incarnation of Seabiscuit. Just don't call this one-year old English Springer Spaniel a darkhorse! Jackson is more than comfortable setting the pace at the Doggy Dash, and just hopes owner Dov can keep up with him. Together the pair is singularly focused on taking the title this summer.