Fast CAT dog run trials return to Dac Rowe Sept. 24-25
Sept. 11, 2022 | By Waterbury Roundabout UPDATE | Sept. 22, 2022: The trials are full for competitors this weekend. Spectators are welcome (without dogs).
A dog chases the lure during a Fast CAT trial this spring. Photo by Gordon Miller
The Green Mountain Dog Club hosts another of its Fast CAT trial events at Dac Rowe Park, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 24-25.
Organizers say that registrations are filling up quickly with spots just left for the Sunday heats. Spectators are welcome to attend as well.
Fast CAT – which stands for Coursing Ability Test – is a timed 100-yard dash where dogs run individually chasing a lure. The official events are timed and organized and recorded by breed including mixed breeds.
The American Kennel Club describes the events as “a terrific opportunity to introduce new participants to the world of AKC sports as one of the few events where all that is needed to compete is a dog’s natural instincts.”
This local event is a non-sanctioned fun run open to all breeds over 6 months of age and not timed. The club is looking to hold the event for enjoyment and a fundraiser, and to familiarize members and the public with it with the goal of potentially holding official timed events sanctioned by the American Kennel Club in the future.
All dogs participating must be on leash at all times unless in the chute for their run. Dogs may take three turns in each heat.
The events open both days at 9 a.m. for check-in. Saturday has heats scheduled for 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. and registration is full. Sunday has heats at 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. with spaces still available.
Each dog needs a handler to release and to catch the dog. The club will have releasers available for anyone needing a second person to assist. A shorter 50-yard run will be available for dogs and handlers new to the event.
Spectators are welcome but asked to not bring dogs that are not participating. The event will be set up near the Winooski Street entrance to the park.
The entry cost is $10 per dog, per run. To sign up, email gmdcfastcat@gmail.com.
More information is online on the Green Mountain Dog Club’s Facebook page or contact Andy McMahan with questions at Ripanco@aol.com.