The fur will fly and feathers will definitely flap when Western Australia's most famous characters line up for the state's quirkiest sporting showdown. The Great Mascot Race returns to Burswood Park on November 22, 2025, as part of the WA Day Festival celebrations, with seventeen beloved mascots ready to thunder down the track.
Return of a Western Australian Tradition
This annual spectacle has become one of the most anticipated events on WA's social calendar, building on legendary moments from previous years. Fans still talk about Lotto Ball's memorable victory in 2023 and Rick the Rock's feathered triumph in 2024. Earlier this year, Wilbur the Wildcat delivered high-flying heroics that captured everyone's imagination.
The 2025 edition promises to be bigger and better than ever, with mascots representing various Western Australian organizations and sports teams. Expect plenty of feathers, fur, foam, and unexpected dance breaks as the crowd cheers their favorites toward the finish line.
Ross Wallman from Nova 93.7 will provide live commentary, capturing every wobble, tumble, and triumphant moment. Adding to the prestige, The Perth Mint has created a special gold medallion specifically for the winning mascot.
Complete 2025 Mascot Form Guide
Here's your comprehensive guide to all seventeen competitors in this year's Great Mascot Race, complete with odds and expert analysis:
Buzzy – Muzz Buzz (Odds: 8-1)
This caffeine-powered community charger runs on flat whites and pure positivity. While dominant on the dance floor, Buzzy tends to over-excite early and might sprint too soon. Tipsters suggest if the track gets slippery, the caffeine could kick in early, making this mascot a valuable runner.
Nugget – Gold Industry Group (Odds: 9-1)
A lightweight legend with a golden glow, Nugget boasts sparkling personality and strong crowd appeal. The mascot's weakness? Getting distracted by shiny objects, including gold medals. With the new gold medallion at stake, motivation should be high, and Nugget could dazzle in the home straight.
Happy Heart – The Heart Foundation (Odds: 7-1)
Fit, fearless, and full of love, Happy Heart brings endurance and enthusiasm to the track. The mascot's community spirit sometimes leads to too many high-fives mid-race. Expect plenty of smiles, sweat, and possibly a selfie at the finish line.
Chancey the Lotto Ball – Lotterywest (Odds: 4-1)
This veteran roller continues bouncing strong at 90 years young. Chancey has luck and crowd support on their side but tends to roll off-course when fans cheer too loudly. If Chancey stays focused, anything's possible, giving this mascot a real shot at reclaiming the title.
Banks the Cockatoo – RAC Arena (Odds: 6-1)
As rock 'n' roll royalty from RAC Arena, Banks brings bold confidence and thrives under pressure. The mischievous mascot might stop for an impromptu guitar solo when bored. With a big personality and even bigger chance, Banks ranks as a top-three contender.
Sunny Bunny – Epilepsy WA (Odds: 5-1)
Bright, bouncy, and full of heart, Sunny Bunny runs on hope, hops, and purple power. While more interested in cuddles than competition, don't underestimate the hop factor – this mascot could spring a surprise podium finish.
Rick the Rock – West Coast Eagles (Odds: 4-1)
The 2024 champion returns with charisma and confidence. Rick brings flair, feathers, and fast finishes to the track, though the beak sometimes blocks the view of the finish line and the mascot overheats easily. As reigning champion and crowd magnet, Rick remains hard to bet against.
Maali – West Coast Fever (Odds: 10-1)
Graceful on court but gritty on track, Maali possesses an elegant stride and fierce spirit. The mascot can't resist waving to fans during the race. With strong swan power, Maali represents a dark horse chance for podium placement.
Westy – The Western Force (Odds: 14-1)
This Western Force flyer brings heart and humour to the competition. Westy boasts an impressive wingspan and crowd energy but tends to be clumsy on land and loves stopping for selfies. While likely to trade speed for showmanship, Westy remains one to watch.
Blaze – Perth Scorchers (Odds: 40-1)
Blaze brings the heat, hype, and heart with endless stamina and charisma. Unfortunately, oversized feet make sprinting difficult. This mascot will light up the crowd rather than the leaderboard.
George the Gorilla – Perth Glory (Odds: 5-1)
Acrobatic, cheeky, and light on his feet, George combines strength, playfulness, and agility. The mascot tends to show off mid-race. As a genuine crowd-pleaser with real form, George represents a serious contender for the crown.
Wilbur the Wildcat – Perth Wildcats (Odds: 4-1)
A showman supreme with championship moves, Wilbur brings speed, agility, and sprinting ability. The wildcat gets distracted by applause and camera flashes. Expect fireworks wherever Wilbur goes, with a genuine chance at victory.
Johnny Docker – Fremantle Dockers (Odds: 15-1)
This laid-back legend from Freo remains calm, cool, and connected. Johnny might miss the starting whistle while catching imaginary waves. While probably too chill to chase gold, the mascot will earn plenty of style points.
Iris – Lions Eye Institute (Odds: 18-1)
Smart, curious, and full of wonder, Iris brings vision, energy, and curiosity to the race. The round shape makes cornering tricky. This mascot could literally see the finish line coming before everyone else.
Wally Swan – WA Day (Odds: 50-1)
Tall, proud, and ready to ruffle feathers, Wally perseveres with pride and humour. The swan topples easily and lacks speed and coordination. While shiny plumage might distract other competitors, a win would require a miracle.
Kura - St John WA (Odds: 22-1)
This big-hearted paramedic bear brings first-aid knowledge, a steady pace, and love for the limelight. Clumsy feet and tendency to trip over enthusiasm present challenges. Kura may not be the fastest but will absolutely patch up any mascot who takes a tumble.
Race Day Details and Expectations
The Great Mascot Race takes place at Burswood Park on November 22 as a highlight of the WA Day Festival. While Fat Cat from Telethon serves as the official starter rather than a competitor, the iconic mascot will lead the cheer squad and begin the race with characteristic love and enthusiasm.
Spectators can anticipate an unforgettable display of mascot mayhem as these beloved characters thunder, wobble, and occasionally tumble toward the finish line. With seventeen competitors ranging from caffeine-powered runners to paramedic bears, the 2025 edition promises to deliver Western Australia's quirkiest and most entertaining sporting spectacle.
