If you and your dog like to play fetch with a flying disc, you’ll be wowed by these dog athletes taking it to new heights. Disc Dog is an exciting, fast-paced, fun sport that dogs and people can enjoy on many different levels. On November 8-9, competitors will go head-to-head as they compete in the AKC UpDog Invitational Presented by GEICO.
How to Watch the AKC UpDog Invitational
You can watch all the action from the AKC UpDog Invitational on ESPN2 on Sunday, November 23 at 1pm ET by tuning in to ESPN2 on cable television or by signing in on any device.
Not able to catch the premiere broadcast? Don’t worry! You can watch the show again on ESPN networks, with specific times and dates available in your local listings.
How Does Disc Dog Work?
Disc Dog and the UpDog Challenge have a variety of games offered. Currently, UpDog Challenge includes nine disc-only games as well as three disc+agility games. The addition of agility obstacles is a unique feature that helps to encourage canine athletes from different disciplines to give this sport a try.
For the AKC UpDog Invitational Presented by GEICO, two of these games were played. Here’s how they work:
Far Out
In this long-distance game, you throw the flying disc three times, accumulating points with each throw, then you get a “sweet spot” (bonus throw), which can replace your lowest-scoring throw. The team with the highest point total wins.
Freestyle
Freestyle is divided into four divisions based on the dog’s height: Mini, Midi, Maxi, and Mega. In this game, which is the ultimate way for dog-handler teams to show off their skills, teams showcase their best “discdogging moves,” according to UpDog.
The game involved two freestyle rounds, and two “sweet spot” bonus throws. In the first round, known as the criterion round, judges evaluate teams based on set criteria in four categories: human performance, dog performance, teamwork, and success. The second freestyle round is known as the performance round, and includes a “celebrity” judge, usually someone outside of the sport.
Want to Get Involved in Disc Dog?
If seeing Disc Dog on TV has gotten you excited about participating with your own dog, getting started is easier than you think. The best way is to find a club near you that offers classes, and determine which games are best for you and your dog.
If you’re not ready to go to a class, many clubs host online classes and seminars, and you can try practicing with a flying disc at home.
Learn more about UpDog and the UpDog Challenge, including more about events in your area, UpDog games, and more!
Don’t think Disc Dog is for you? Don’t worry! There are many dog sports that are suitable for dogs of all ages and abilities.
Catch! The AKC UpDog Invitational Presented by GEICO will premiere on ESPN2 on Sunday, November 23 at 1PM ET. You won’t want to miss these high-flying dog teams in action.