The American Kennel Club (AKC®), a not-for-profit organization, the world’s largest purebred dog registry and leading advocate for dogs, is excited to announce that the AKC Disc Dog Challenge, presented by The Farmer’s Dog, will air on ESPN2. The competition will premiere on Saturday, June 17th at 5pm ET. The AKC Disc Dog Challenge brought together 24 dog and handler teams for an exciting competition that is sure to thrill spectators.
“Disc Dog is such a fun sport, and it’s evident that the dogs are having the time of their lives,” said Gina DiNardo, AKC Executive Secretary. “We can’t wait for ESPN viewers to have a front row seat to this exciting competition.”
This year’s AKC Disc Dog Challenge was held May 21st in Rock Hill, SC. The event showcased 18 teams taking part in three high-energy games:
- Time Warp: Dogs and handlers work to complete three catches in three different time zones. Time ends when the last disc (in play) is caught by the dog, and the dog and handler are both behind the start line to stop time. Teams work to complete this task in the shortest amount of time under 60-seconds.
- Frizgility: the object of the game in Frizgility is for the dog to successfully maneuver through 3 obstacles, make a catch in the catch zone, return, and keep going. Teams have 60-seconds to rack up as many points as they can by completing obstacles and successfully catching the disc.
- Spaced Out: Spaced out is all about accuracy. Dogs and handlers complete catches in each of four, rectangular catch zones to receive the Spaced Out bonus. Teams keep going to receive as many spaced out bonuses as they can in 60-seconds.
Six additional dog and handler teams will compete in a special Far Out game, based purely on distance! Two Teams, each consisting of 3 dogs and handlers, will attempt long distance throws. Distances for each successful catch will be added together, and the team with the highest total wins.
The broadcast will be hosted by noted sportscaster Carolyn Manno, including sideline reporting by Bill Ellis and analysis by Jason Rigler.