AKC Fast CAT
What exactly is Fast CAT?
Fast CAT stands for Fast Coursing Ability Test.
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It is the AKC's entry level lure coursing sport. The course is a straight 100 yards and dogs are timed to find out how quickly they can cover the distance.
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They chase multiple lures (3 white bags) that are attached to a line which allows it to be pulled in front of the dog. The bags resemble fleeing animals and are intended to stimulate the dog's prey drive. Dogs instinctively want to give chase.
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Dogs can enter and compete for AKC lure coursing titles or they can participate just for the fun of it. Most dogs take right to the sport.
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If you love to watch dogs in action and you've never been to a Fast CAT event, you really owe yourself the experience. You'd be surprised how fast some of our four legged friends can run. And boy do they have fun!
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For more information about Fast CAT, visit AKC.org
PLACE: Volusia County Fairgrounds
DATE: September 22-24
TIME: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Fast CAT Participants
There will be 2 AKC approved Fast CAT events each day. They are run concurrently.
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You can enter online or you can enter using the form in the premium.
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Everyone coming should be sure to read the premium because it goes over a lot of the rules and expectations for participation in the events.
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The action starts at 8 am and ends at 4 pm. We stop for lunch between 12 and 1 because well fed volunteers are happy volunteers and we feel everyone should have a good time at a Fast CAT event - spectators, participants, and volunteers. We know the dogs definitely do!
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Dog Sports Unlimited will be the Fast CAT operator. You can visit their website and enroll in their Fast CAT Rewards program to be eligible for discounts and rewards on entry fees.
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EVENT INFORMATION
New to Fast CAT
For those of you who have never been to a Fast CAT event, here are some of the basic things you need to know.
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Fast CAT is a lure coursing sport that requires a dog that loves to chase things and two people that love to watch them run. It requires two people because someone has to release the dog and someone else has to catch it at the other end of the track.
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So you need to bring a friend when you run your dog. We understand that sometimes it's not always possible to do that, but we ask that you try. Our brave volunteers work both ends of the track but dogs can be "funny" sometimes when they are all wound up and ready to go. It's always best to have someone the dog is familiar with handling them in those situations. We'll help retrieve and release but it's nice when we don't have to.
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There are two types of runs you can make during a Fast CAT event, Official Runs and Fun Runs. Official Runs count towards AKC standings and titles. Fun Runs are exactly that, they're just for the enjoyment of the dog. Official Runs take priority over Fun Runs. Fun Runs will only be allowed when time permits. On very busy days Fun Runs will typically be permitted near the end of the day. Otherwise, we can usually slip them in during lulls in the action. Check the premium for more information.
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If you are thinking of running your dog for a Fun Run, here are some things you need to be aware of.
No choke collars, prong collars, Martingale collar, soft leads, or any other type of collar that can cause undue stress or harm on the neck if it should become caught on something. A regular leather or cloth collar should be used that allows for a leash to be easily clipped on and off. A slip collar can also be used.
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You also need to bring two leashes. One for the person that releases and one for the person that catches. We try not to let dogs run down the track with their leashes still attached. Capes yes! Leashes No!
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