Who is the fastest dog in the country? You’re about to find out. At Fastest Dogs USA, an AKC and ESPN production, the country’s speediest canines gather for the third annual, invitation-only event. Dogs of all breeds participate year-long, around the country, in AKC Fast Coursing Ability Tests (Fast CAT) – the 100-yard dash for dogs.
Fastest Dogs USA will highlight a select group of the quickest canines competing in the sport of Fast CAT in this all-star, invitational show. The top dog from the 14 fastest breeds was invited, plus the winner from last year. But you will also see some speedy Golden Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Basset Hounds in the mix, as well as a special Puppy Dash.
This year’s event was held on September 16 in Kannapolis, North Carolina, at the Atrium Health Ballpark where breeds of all sizes raced across the finish line. Each dog will run twice to determine their best time. You can watch all the action unfold on TV to get in on the fun.
How To Watch AKC Fastest Dogs USA 2022
You can watch the AKC Fastest Dogs USA on Sunday, September 25 at 3 p.m. ET by tuning in to ABC on your TV or signing in on any device. The broadcast will be hosted by ESPN’s Phil Murphy, including play-by-play by sportscaster Carolyn Manno and analysis by Bill Ellis.
Last Year’s Winner
Reas, a 3-year-old Whippet bested others to win the title of 2021 Fastest Dog USA, and then a week later won the American Kennel Club’s Fast CAT Invitational in Florida. His two runs over the 100-yard grass track at the ESPN competition were 5.749 and 5.823 seconds, which averaged 35.36 miles per hour. You can watch him compete at this year’s Fastest Dog USA and try to keep his title of fastest dog.
How Does Fast CAT Work?
Fast CAT is a timed straight race of 100 yards where one dog runs at a time chasing a lure. It’s fast, and exciting, and you will see hair flying in the wind. The time to complete is recorded and the 100-yard dash is converted into MPHs. A handicap system that is based on the height of the dog is applied to a dog’s MPH to determine the number of points earned.
If your dog loves running and chasing, they will likely love Fast CAT. To get started call or visit your a local AKC club and see if they offer one or both of the two types of tests: Lure Coursing or the Coursing Ability Test. From there, you can truly see how fast you dog runs for some serious bragging rights.