Are you interested in learning more about AKC FastCAT? As a dog owner, you have probably heard of this exciting sport that allows your furry friend to showcase their speed. AKC FastCAT events are gaining in popularity and are becoming more and more common, especially in the Wichita, Kansas area. In fact, last year, (2022), the Wichita Kennel Club hosted the very first AKC FastCAT event in the Wichita Metro area. Several Cane Corsos from Vae Victis love FastCAT and participated in the event.
First, let's start with the basics. AKC FastCAT is a timed event where dogs run a straight 100-yard course, chasing a lure, which is usually a white shopping bag tied to a line, that is pulled on a motorized pulley system. The goal is to complete the course as quickly as possible. Your dog’s time is then converted into miles per hour using the following equation 204.545/time, and points are awarded according to the result. For example, let’s say your dog took 7.43 seconds to complete the 100-yard sprint, 204.545/7.43 = 27.53 mph hour. So, your dog earned 27.53 points on that run. Typically, each dog runs twice a day, and the hosting club usually has at least three days of runs, for a total of six runs. At the completion of each qualifying run, your dog will receive a light blue ribbon. Your dog's time should be recorded on the back of the ribbon.
As your dog accumulates points, it is awarded different titles, with the first being the BCAT, followed DCAT and FCAT. It only takes 150 points for your dog to earn their BCAT title, 500 for the DCAT, and 1000 points for FCAT. Points are accumulated, each run counts, and you don’t start over at each title. If you enter your dog in both runs on all three days and, using the same math in paragraph two, your dog runs an average of 27.53 mph on each run, your dog will earn the BCAT title in one weekend. Remember BCAT is only 150 points, that is how they get you hooked.
Currently, Bugatti is ranked the 5th fastest Cane Corso in the United States, last year she finished in third place. Narco is not too far behind Bugatti, he is currently ranked in 16th place. His last few runs were held in the spring and the weather conditions were not ideal. It was a typical spring day in Kansas, with a strong headwind and wet/muddy soil. We are hoping the weather will be more ideal at his next event, which will be held in mid-September.
To be ranked within your dog’s breed, he or she will need to complete at least 3 runs. After the events are completed and the hosting club submits your times to the AKC, your dog's three fastest runs will be averaged and your dog will be ranked accordingly. At the end of the year, the top 5 dogs in each breed are invited to the AKC FastCAT invitational, held in Florida. It's important to note that AKC FastCAT is a sport that considers the safety and well-being of your dog, so all events are closely monitored to ensure fair play and safety.
All dogs can participate in AKC FastCAT, as long as they meet the following requirements:
1. Your dog must be at least 12 months old.
2. Your dog must have an AKC registration number via one of the following:
· AKC registration as one of the AKC recognized breeds.
· AKC Canine Partners, this is for mixed-breed dogs and other dogs ineligible for AKC registration.
· Purebred Alternative Listing program (PAL) This is for purebred dogs that cannot be fully registered with the AKC.
· Foundation Stock Service (FSS) this is for breeds in the process of gaining full AKC recognition.
So now that you’ve established that your dog can participate and you have entered the event, what is next? Well, when you arrive at the event you will be required to check in and your dog must pass a basic health exam. The exam is usually held at the check-in table and consists of an event official observing our dog as you trot or gait him back and forth. If you have a female, you will be asked to prove she is not in season by wiping her genital area with a paper towel. If your female is in season, she will not be permitted to run. As long as no obvious health issues are observed such as a noticeable limp, or an over obese dog, your dog will pass the exam and your dog will be allowed to run as many times as he or she has been entered.
Here are a few things to make sure you bring along:
1. A Catcher. If possible, bring someone along who will be able to catch your dog at the end of the course. There are usually plenty of friendly volunteers who will help you, but it is important to know that the hosting club is not required to provide someone to catch your dog for you.
2. Bring two leads. You will need one for releasing your dog, assuming you don’t use a quick-release style collar. And you will need a second leash to catch your dog at the end of the course. We recommend a sturdy slip lead. (slip lead link provided below)
3. Bring poop bags to clean up after your dog. All too often people allow their dogs to poop and don’t clean up. This is one of the fastest ways to not be invited back to the event location. (link provided below)
4. Bring a bowl and some water for your dog. A pop-up bowl is convenient for traveling with your dog. (link provided below)
5. Bring some beverages and snacks for yourself.
6. Dress appropriately. The dogs will usually run even if it is raining or snowing. Think of things like gloves, sweatshirts, sunscreen, etc.
Overall, AKC FastCAT is a fun and challenging sport that allows your dog to showcase their natural speed and agility. If you're interested in learning more, be sure to check out the AKC website for upcoming events and registration information.
We have left a few informational links below.
AKC FastCAT website:https://www.akc.org/sports/coursing/fast-cat/#:~:text=All%20dogs%20can%20participate%20in,No%20wonder.
AKC FastCAT Top 20 rankings: https://www.apps.akc.org/apps/fastcat_ranking/?sso=rel
6 foot long 3/4 inch biothane lead #ad: https://amzn.to/3qfS0Bl
Slip lead for catching at end of run #ad: https://amzn.to/3DOGhNi
poop bags #ad: https://amzn.to/43XxFhW
collapsible water bowl #ad: https://amzn.to/3qv0ODc