We have some big news to report about All-Americans succeeding at earning the top titles and honors in Agility, Coursing Ability, Fast CAT, Rally, Obedience, Scent Work, Tracking, and Trick Dog!
AGILITY
New AGCH (Agility Grand Champion)
AGCH MACH4 Gorman’s Athena MXB2 PDS MJS2 PJS MFG TQX T2B6 owned by Diane Fairfax Gorman of St. Paul, MN
Four-year-old rescue dog Athena is Diane’s first agility dog. “It feels like yesterday that I was holding a tiny, limp 8 week old puppy in my hands while a vet in a hazmat suit told me a puppy as young and sick as Athena had a very slim chance of surviving Parvo,” Diane said.
Athena’s mom and littermates came down with Parvo the day after Diane adopted her from the shelter. She had to make decisions and was sent home with a huge bag of needles and fluids to give Athena subcutaneous liquids around the clock. “I had never done this before and shed many tears in the process. But Athena fought through and the first day she showed interest in a toy again I was overjoyed!”
Diane had no idea she would ever do agility with this pup, so she had no early training. Her first thought of agility came because Athena displayed a behavior in the backyard that could best be described as “jumping for joy,” Diane said. “She would run around and randomly leap high into the air in a graceful ark like a gazelle.” So, at a year old, Athena went to her first agility class, and it quickly became the highlight of Diane’s week. From that point on, Athena’s list of accomplishments just continued to grow.
On June 22 at the St. Croix Valley KC trial in Ham Lake, MN, Athena got her AGCH and MACH 5. She got an invitation to the AKC Agility Invitational for the second year in a row. Last March she went to AKC National Agility Championship (NAC) and made it to the finals. “I’m hoping for many more years to play the game with this wonderful teammate!”
New Master Agility Champions (MACH)
MACH Tara Indigo MXB MJB CGC TKA FITG FTN owned by Sabrina Lelli of Bedford, MA
Tara was adopted by Sabrina from a Massachusetts rescue association in November 2020. “She was 4 months old and the sweetest puppy ever,” Sabrina said. “It took less than five seconds to know she was the one.”
At that time, Sabrina did not know anything about agility or dog sports. She started teaching Tara basic commands and she was instinctively good at it: attentive and eager to please. Sabrina bought a trick-training book, and that was the beginning of their journey.
They started with basic obedience and quickly transitioned to agility. They learned together, and Tara was incredibly forgiving of Sabrina’s late cues and mistakes. She flew through her Novice and Open titles with barely any NQs.
In 2024, they had the opportunity to attend the Northeast Agility Championship in West Springfield, MA, where they placed fourth in the 20-inch category. “I was so proud of her, as an All American, rescued, Novice A dog, competing amongst very seasoned dogs! Each time I am at a trial, I’m reminded of how lucky I am to run with her,” Sabrian said.
A few months later, on March 28, 2025, at American K9 Country in Amherst, NH, Tara earned her MACH. She was 4 ½ years old. Watching from the sidelines was her new sister, Cali, a 2-year-old All American rescue, who had just started her own agility journey following in Tara’s pawprints.
MACH Mayhem Motley MXS MJS MFS TQX T2B4 owned by Joanne Troesch of Crestwood, IL
Joanne found Motley while looking for a rescue dog to run agility. She was told Motley was 10 ½ months old and an Australian Shepherd/Lab mix. They took an obedience class and then started agility. “I promised her we would get her a MACH,” Joanne said.
“I knew I was in trouble because Motley was fast, and I couldn’t keep up with her.” While they were training, Joanne tore her meniscus on both sides and needed surgery. After she recovered, they started training again.
At her first trial, on her first run, Motley jumped on the scribe table before even taking the start jump. On her second run, she jumped out of the ring. Joanne kept thinking she may have made a mistake, but they persevered. “In my head, we quit so many times, but everyone kept telling me, ‘It takes a village.’”
Since then, Joanne has learned that the village is every dog person she knows who offers help or advice and includes instructors, her dog friends and various other people who have been through an agility journey. Listening to their stories is inspiring to her.
In November 2022, Joanne learned that she had lung cancer. “I told Motley that I was afraid I might have to break my promise of a MACH to her,” she said. She wasn’t sure she would be able to run her after a lobectomy. When they resumed competition, she was worried about a recurrence, so she felt the need to work harder. She wanted to keep her promise to Motley.
It all started coming together, and Double Qs were coming in.
When Joanne learned they qualified for the 2025 AKC NAC in Tulsa, she knew they had to go. Motley was about to turn 10, and when would they have this chance again? They went with a group of friends who told Joanne she should try to get one clear round. “I wasn’t sure we could do it, but we took one obstacle at a time and somehow managed to get three clear rounds,” she said.
Fast forward a month and on April 18, 2025, Motley and Joanne achieved their MACH at the Paw Power Blues Club of Indiana’s trial at Rush N Around Agility in Manhattan, IL. “I am so proud of Motley because she never gave up on me. She is the best teammate ever!”
MACH Abby Lovett MXB MJS OF owned by Kim & John Lovett of San Diego, CA
In mid-2020, John and Kim lost their beloved 14-year-old Labrador. They had owned only Labs for 20-plus years. John’s heart was so broken he swore there would be no more dogs. But Kim had not been without a dog in her entire life. One month later, at a winery, a dog came over and put its head in John’s lap. The owner came over and told them that this dog, Claire, had never done that before. Kim could see a crack in John’s resolve.
Kim went in search for a puppy. She found a litter with three females. “One looked like a total sweetheart, one looked a little too meek and mild, and one looked like a little devil,” Kim said. By the time Kim wore John down, the sweetheart had already gone to her forever home. They went with the devil.
Kim retired on Dec. 29 and Abby, named for a Travis Denning song, arrived on Jan. 2. She was a very playful and energetic puppy. She loved to leap over things in the backyard: pathways, steps, rocks. Kim had only heard of agility and had never seen it but knew that Abby needed a job. She watched YouTube videos, bought equipment on Amazon, found an awesome trainer at DogQuest Agility, and built an Aframe and teeter.
Abby flew through her Novice, Open and Excellent levels. She was known at competitions for her high-flying tail and happy smile. On April 26, 2025, Abby earned her 20th QQ and her MACH title at the Border Terrier Club of Southern California trial.
MACH H.R. Rona MXS MJS XF T2B2 owned by Tiffany Dornan of Stephenville, TX
“I’m just going to keep going” was Tiffany’s reply when a friend asked her what she was going to do. Rona and Tiffany struggled early on in their agility career. “Rona was fast, and I wasn’t. I was late with my cues, and the environment stressed her,” Tiffany said. “Rona would disconnect, bark at me and pull off obstacles when it wasn’t clear where we were going.”
Along the way, Tiffany made two new friends who believed in her and Rona. Instead of asking “What are you going to do?” they made training suggestions, sent her drills to work on and brainstormed ways to help Rona with the environment. Rona could not have achieved her MACH without the help of these two friends!
Rona earned her MACH on May 2, 2025, at the Capitol Dog Training Club of Austin trial in Belton, TX. “I’m so proud of the rescue puppy who turned agility champion!”
MACH Bonnie Jo Rae CD BN RI FDC MXB MJS MXF T2B2 CGCA CGCU TKA ATT owned by Sheila Dick of Fort Wayne, IN
Bonnie Jo Rae was adopted by Sheila at 4 ½ months from a rescue. At that time, Sheila had her first agility dog, Boomer-Ang, who was quite dog-reactive, and Bonnie Jo knew how to deal with her.
“I was finally able to get a puppy while Boomer was still with us,” Sheila said.
Bonnie Jo is a true All American Dog who got her CGC, CGC Urban and Advanced, Rally Advanced, Farm Dog Certified, and Trick Dog Advanced titles after training with the Fort Wayne Obedience Club.
They trained with Riju Dawg Skool for her Companion Dog obedience title, but her love is agility. “Since she was my second agility dog, I thought I knew more than I did, so I made some mistakes in her early training,” Sheila said. “But somehow we eventually got more consistent and moved through the agility titles.”
Once a local agility facility, Adventuretails, was built, Bonnie Jo improved greatly. Training on a full-sized course and being able to rent ring time made a big difference. She got her MACH on May 18, 2025. Along the way, she has earned the JWW Silver award, Standard Master Agility Bronze Award, Time 2 Beat2, and Master FAST. She is a regular in AKC Agility League in the Senior division and has earned the Clean Sweep awards many seasons. Although she isn’t always the fastest dog, she usually makes time in all but the occasional Premier JWW class.
Bonnie Jo is Sheila’s constant companion and enjoys traveling with her and her husband. They continue to have fun training for and entering agility trials.
MACH Its High Flying Marvel MXB MJB XF owned by Carol Boggess & Merritt Speagle of Montpelier, VA
Known as “Iron Man” on the course and affectionately known as “Stark” by his friends and family off the course, this All American Dog earned his MACH at Level Up Dog Sports in Mechanicsville, VA, on May 30, 2025.
Iron Man has been listed on the Bad Dog Agility Breed Power multiple times since he has started his agility career. 2025 has been an exciting year for him. At the AKC NAC, he made it into the Challengers Round. He was invited to compete at the Purina ProPlan Incredible Dog Challenge Eastern Regional where he placed second. At the European Open Team Tryouts, he was the overall winner for medium dogs so he won on a spot for Team USA.
This was their first USA Team ever. The European Open was held in Portugal in July, and Iron Man’s first run was Team Jumping where he ran clean and placed fourth in the world.
“To me, Stark is the most perfect dog,” Carol said. “He is a fierce competitor on the course and off the course he is the most relaxed and sweet dog anyone could ask for. He is my heart and soul.”
MACH Duncan Gregg MXB MJB MXF T2B2 BCAT ACT1 owned by Erica & John Gregg of Salisbury, MD
Duncan is Erica’s Novice A dog, and his journey has been “beyond rewarding,” she said. The Greggs adopted him in February 2019 from the Wicomico County Humane Society, down the road from where they had just purchased their first house. About his past they only know that he was found as a stray by animal control.
Duncan had a lot of energy, and basic obedience was not going to keep his mind and body busy enough. That fall they started agility classes, and he took to the sport like he was born for it. Class stopped for the winter, and then Covid hit. But they were hooked, so Erica bought six weave poles on Amazon, John made some jumps with old wood and plastic from their garage, and in one week Erica taught him to weave. Through virtual agility classes, she worked on handling and skills.
That summer classes resumed, and they got their first title – ACT1 – at an outdoor social distancing trial. By fall they were ready to start trialing.
“We were a fast but far from polished Novice A team. JWW always came easy, but start line stays and contacts were our struggle, and downfall, for many years,” Erica said. But with hard work, the Qs came, then titles, then in Masters the QQs and QQQs, and many Premier Qs. After several years with a fast, ring-wise dog, and time off for the Greggs’ son to be born, they have had the year of their lives.
In March 2025 they attended their first NAC where they picked up a Premier Q (and top 5% placing). “And on June 1st it happened – the MACH, at a home trial five minutes from our house. A few weeks later we learned we had made our first Breed Power 10 rankings for 16-inch. It’s been a wild ride but at about 7 years young, I don’t think Duncan is done quite yet,” Erica said.
They hope for a trip to Westminster one day, maybe another NAC, and as long as Duncan continues to light up when they walk to the line, they will keep running agility.
“He’s the best family dog I could ever ask for in this season of my life. While our MACH feels like the culmination of a journey, I feel like it may only be the beginning.”
MACH ZG Jammin’s Start Me Up MXB MJS XF T2B owned by Penny Leigh & Dale McElrath of Graham, NC
Four-year-old Indy is a Miniature American Shepherd-mix who loves to run agility and go fast.
She is cute and precocious and thinks the world revolves around her. She started running agility when she was about 2 years old and achieved MACH in two years in limited trialing. She finished her MACH on June 1, 2025, at the Star City Canine Training Club trial in Oak Ridge, NC.
Indy also loves to compete in the AKC Agility League where she is one of the top ranked dogs in her jump height in the Regulation Senior division. In addition, she likes playing fetch and showing you – and telling you about – all the toys that she collects.
Indy has qualified for the 2026 NAC in California. “We are excited for what the future holds as she continues her agility journey,” Penny said.
MACH Delta Hyun MXS MJG MXF CGC TKP owned by Joanne Hyun of Los Angeles, CA
When Joanne adopted Delta as a family pet in January 2020, she never imagined that the Benji/Sandy/Arthur look-alike would make it to NAC or even compete at Masters level – she just knew he was athletic and good at jumping over the couch and baby gate.
In December 2020, when Delta turned 12 months, they had their first agility lesson, propelling their agility journey.
“With his strong work ethic and being food motivated, Delta has been easy and fun to train,” Joanne said. From displaying his athleticism by jumping on her back for a back stall to doing more mellow tricks such as sitting pretty like a lemur, he obtained his AKC Trick Dog Performer title at just 23 months old.
Other things Delta enjoys are catch and fetch with the disc, dog beach days with zoomies and long walks, hikes in the hills and in general just hanging out with his family. Delta also trains in scent work.
What Joanne most loves about Delta is his endearing sweet personality and how he always shows up ready to give his all – she and her family are most grateful to have him in their lives and look forward to more adventures with him leading the charge!
Delta’s MACH was earned at Community Center Park in Camarillo, CA on June 8, 2025 at the AKC Agility trial hosted by the Border Collie Club of Southern California judged by Dr. Roger O’Sullivan.
MACH Where’s Waldo MXB MJB XF T2B DCAT FITB owned by Molly Baltins of Gloucester, VA
Eight-year-old Waldo is Molly’s Novice A dog. During his first puppy training class, Molly could see that he loved to learn and looked forward to class. She knew she wanted to do something with him, but wasn’t sure what at that time.
Her aunt was doing agility with her Shih Tzu, and Molly thought it might be fun; little did she know it would become her favorite hobby and activity! She could see instantly that Waldo enjoyed it, patiently (or not so patiently) sticking his nose under the fence asking, “Is it my turn yet?”
After moving to Virginia in 2022, they started trialing at AKC events. With Waldo’s love of learning and trying new things, he quickly titled in Novice, Open and Excellent classes. When they got to Master, Molly started counting the QQs. While collecting their points and QQ’s, they also started trying ISC courses, taking classes, and participating in AKC Agility League with their team Bar Hoppers. The pair had the opportunity to attend the AKC International Sweepstakes Championships where Waldo surprised Molly by making finals.
They earned their MACH on June 20 at Level Up Dog Sports in Mechanicsville, Virginia. “I was, and still am, at a loss for words at earning our MACH,” Molly said. “When I picked him up in Minnesota, in the small town of Waldorf, never would I have imagined the journey we would be on together!”
MACH Sansone’s Fleury-De-Lis MXB MJB MXF T2B owned by Stacie Sansone & Michael Curtis of Maryville, IL
Fleury is a 4 year old Border Collie/Golden Retriever/other mixed-breed rescue.
“She has truly been a joy to raise and play all the fun games with,” Stacie said.
She is calm and sweet outside the ring but once they step up to the start line “she flips the switch and is a spitfire, sometimes a bit too sassy!”
She truly loves to play the game, and Stacie said she is honored to be the one who gets to be on her team. They had a wonderful trip to the NAC for the first time this year. Fleury also enjoys competing in dock diving, hunting lizards in the yard, and tearing apart brand-new lambchop toys.
Her MACH was earned at Triune Canine Training and Event Center in Woodriver, IL, on June 28,2025
Congratulations also to these dogs on earning the MACH title:
- MACH Breezyblue Wild One MJB XF T2B owned by Jennifer Thomas of Wylie, TX
- MACH Maggie May Carey MXS MJB XF FCAT2 RATCH CGCA TKA FITG owned by Ana Mendivil & Jared Carey of Magnolia, TX
- MACH Blue Mae MXB MJB MXF T2B BCAT owned by April Rogers & Ian Kent of Atlanta, GA
- MACH Always A Guardian CDX BN RE MXB MJB XF T2B DCAT RATCH DJ CGC TKI owned by Payton Kubiak of Saint Charles, MO
- MACH Maida’s Dakota MXB MJB T2B owned by Karin Maida of Stevensburg, VA
- MACH Claire Bear MXB MJB owned by Sydney Terris & Jamie Tessman of Westport, WI
- MACH HarleyQuinn Blu Skye MXB MJB XF T2B FCAT ACT1J CGC TKI FITG owned by Heather & James Hafner of Inver Grove Heights, MN
- MACH Star Fox MXB MJB OF T2B2 TKI owned by Haley Berman of Los Angeles, CA
- MACH RACH Finn 38th of his name CD BN RM3 RAE2 MXB MJB OF CA BCAT ACT1 TKP owned by Heather Pekarovich of Watertown, MA
New Preferred Agility Champions (PACH)
PACH Samalotapus The Great Mexi-Mutt FDC AX AXJ MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX NF owned by Mike Erlanson & Dana Ryan of San Diego, CA
Sam had a rough beginning as a stray on the streets of Ensenada, Mexico. She was found by a rescue group and brought to the US, where she now lives in her forever home with her three other rescue agility siblings.
Mike and Dana never intended for Sam to do agility, but after she saw her little brother Fancy Pants Lance Man do it, she had to give it a try and was hooked. They were excited that she actually Q’d her very first Novice run. “We did spend some time in open purgatory, but after working through some ring confidence issues she truly excelled,” Mike said.
They have a ritual: just before entering the ring, Sam takes a treat from Mike’s mouth and then gives him a kiss just before the start of her run. This gets her truly excited and charged up for her runs.
“Before we knew it, she was flying through the courses and getting double Q’s faster than I could count them,” he said. They hadn’t made it a goal, but she was only one point shy last year of qualifying for the NAC. This year she easily qualified with more than five months to spare.
Mike and Dana are so proud of Sam and all that she has achieved. “She has taught us all that every pup has potential and deserves a chance.”
PACH Diane’s Clever K9’s Peanut RN FDC NA NAJ MXP3 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX OF MFP T2BP RATM CGC TKI owned by Diane Wray of Bayfield, CO
Peanut, Diane’s almost 9-year-old Russell Terrier mix, has had quite the journey. She spent her early puppyhood on a small animal farm, but her spirited nature proved a bit too much for the livestock, and at 9 months old, she became Diane’s dog. Not long after, they found agility – and they have been a team ever since.
Over the years, Peanut and Diane have shared countless hours training, traveling, and competing in agility trials both locally and out of state. One of their proudest moments came on April 5, 2025, when Peanut earned her PACH title at the Durango Agility Dog Club trial in Farmington, NM.
This year, she also qualified for the AKC National Agility Championship – and in her very first appearance, she made it all the way to the Challengers Round! “I couldn’t be prouder of my little Peanut and all we’ve accomplished together. She’s proof that heart and determination come in small, feisty packages.”
PACH Trippin In The Pumpkinpatch OA AXJ MXP3 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX NFP T2BP CGC owned by Tessa Caldarella & Terrill Bennett of Albuquerque, NM
Pumpkin, a sweet and sometimes spicy Golden Retriever mix, earned her PACH on April 27, 2025, in New Mexico. Seven years ago, Tessa brought Pumpkin home with the intention of training for therapy work. They attended countless puppy and obedience classes, but her boundless energy made that path a challenge. Looking for another outlet, Tessa signed up for a beginner agility class “just for fun.”
That decision changed everything. From the very first class, Pumpkin and Tessa fell in love with the sport. What started as a way to burn off energy became a passion that shaped both their lives. “Agility with Pumpkin isn’t just about competing; it’s an adventure that has taught me patience, persistence, and how to embrace challenges well outside my comfort zone,” Tessa said. “Along the way, we’ve discovered an amazing agility community—people who have become family.”
Earning the PACH title is a milestone that reflects not only Pumpkin’s athleticism and drive but also the incredible bond they have built through years of training and teamwork.
Pumpkin’s journey from a hyper puppy to a champion agility dog has been full of surprises, growth, and joy. Tessa is grateful for every step they have taken together and excited to see where the next chapter leads.
PACH Dashiell Just Call Me Dash FDC MXP4 MXPB MJP5 MJPS PAX XFP T2BP2 BCAT ACT1 CGCA TKE owned by Michael & Cynthia Smith of Rehoboth Beach, DE
In the right environment, with the proper nutrition, a dog’s spirit is boundless. Take Dash, for example. He grew up in a home filled with love and adventure. His owner actively pursued new activities, and he became her Novice A agility dog. Along the way, she became an active member of the Blue Heron Agility Association of Delaware.
Then came adversity. Dash’s owner was stricken with illness. She continued to do her best for him, and he continued to do his best for her. Others came forward to help keep Dash active, including several BHAD members. In time, Dash lost his human and the BHAD community grieved. Dash also grieved. He found comfort in familiar faces, and his owner’s mother became his owner. But despite the extraordinary efforts of a close circle of people to provide him with care, comfort and activity, his world was diminished and at almost 8 years old he faced an uncertain future.
When the time was right, his new owner made the selfless decision to find Dash a new home. Dash was adopted by another BHAD member who could give him the opportunity to continue his agility career. And today, Dash is thriving once again, buoyed by the support of the agility community.
Dash earned his PACH2 title in Harrisonburg, Virginia, on July 18 at a trial hosted by the Shenandoah Valley Kennel Club.
PACH Jack Lasater RE FDC MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX NFP ACT1 ACT1J SWN RATM TKN owned by Veronica Lasater of Bayfield, CO
Jack is a small dog with an enormous spirit, always giving his all every chance he gets. He was adopted from the Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department in Albuquerque, NM, at about 1 year old for just $10 on “Discount Day”! His family was hoping for a goofy companion… and they certainly got one.
At first, Jack was highly reactive. Veronica’s trainer and mentor, Christine Sapa, told her the best thing she could do was focus on bonding and showing him he could count on her. So that’s exactly what they did. Jack and Veronica dove into trick dog and scent work training – activities that didn’t involve crowds or too many people for the first year.
Agility came into their lives almost by chance. While training Jack’s housemate in her backyard, Veronica thought, “Maybe Jack would like this too.” To her delight, with his trick dog background, he took to it naturally. Since then, he’s made tremendous progress in multiple sports and is now a Trick Dog Novice, Master Barn Hunter, strong performer in scent work, and a confident agility competitor.
Jack earned his PACH title at the Western Colorado Agility Club trial in Grand Junction, Colorado, on May 9, 2025. This year he also qualified for and participated in the 2025 AKC NAC – “what a blast.”
More than a dog, Jack is a beacon of joy and a living inspiration and reminder to never count out the little guy. “He’s gifted me experiences richer than gold and made me a better handler in all regards; truly, he’s the best $10 I’ve ever spent and I’m grateful for him every single day.”
MACH2 PACH Riggle’s One Mans Trash Is My Gem MXS MJG MXP3 MXPB MJPB PAX MFB TQX MFP T2B owned by Rhonda J. Riggle of Pasco, WA
Scrap Pea was sent to Rhonda three days after her heart dog Sweet Pea passed. She was a few months old, living in a scrap pile at Rhonda’s workplace. “One of the guys asked me to come outside as he said I was the dog whisperer, and this pup was going to get run over,” she said. Rhonda walked out, found the pup and took her into her arms. She tried to rehome her to a few friends, but she was in love with this dog. Her Sweet Pea had sent this little dog to help heal her broken heart, and that is how Scrap Pea came to be.
She quickly became Rhonda’s agility partner. She will do anything for snacks and loves to snuggle under the covers every night. She travels all over, having qualified and competed in the NAC many times, and has received two MACHs. In May 2025 she received her first PACH. “I hope she and I can run for many more years,” Rhonda said.
She loves to perform tricks (because she loves snacks), going to the Oregon Coast and protecting everyone from all birds. She despises bees, flies and the sort. Rhonda is sure there were “plenty of bitey things in the scrap pile.” She now hangs out with Rhonda’s other dogs, a Parson Russell Terrier and two German Shorthaired Pointers. She is one of a pack of seven that travels to many agility trials in the Pacific Northwest.
Congratulations also to these dogs on earning their PACH titles:
- MACH2 PACH Jolie IX MXG MJG MXP4 MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX MFS TQX MFPB TQXP T2B6 T2BP2 ACT2 CGC TKA owned by Robert E. Goudreau of Ocala, FL
- PACH Rockin Rockies You Got A Friend OA OAJ MXP5 MXPS MJP5 MJPS PAX XFP FCAT CGC TKI owned by Denise C. Haase-Bushong of King William, VA
- Banjo Of Jackson Creek Rd. CD BN RM MXPB MJP4 MJPB PAX MFPB TQXP T2BP BCAT ACT2 SCN SIN SEN DJ DN CGC TKI owned by Mary Ann Norman of Livingston, MT
- MACH PACH Rosslyn MXB MJS MXP3 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX T2B owned by Ellen Harper of Watkins, CO
- PACH Endzone Different Plan MX MXJ MJB MXP3 MXPB MJP7 MJPG PAX OF owned by Nancy Gagliardi Little of Chisago City, MN
- PACH Gracie B Paulson MXP4 MXPB MJP3 MJPB PAX MFP CGC TKA owned by Charlene & Lon Paulson of Oregon City, OR
- PACH Mutya Zanartu MXPB MJP5 MJPS PAX MFPB T2BP CGC TKA owned by Felipe & Jovianne Zanartu of Murrieta, CA
- PACH Hikerboyscout MJP7 MJPG PJDP PAX MFP owned by Cathy Straits of Santa Barbara, CA
Coursing Ability – CAT
One of the easiest ways to get involved in the world of dog sports is with a Coursing Ability Test (CAT). Designed specifically for newcomers, each dog chases after an artificial lure on either a 300- or 600-yard-long course and must finish in less 1 ½ minutes and 2 minutes, respectively.
COURSING ABILITY
CAX (Coursing Ability Excellent)
Bws’s Bog Of Eternal Stinch CAX DCAT CGC owned by Caitlyn Mikos of Carrollton, GA
Ludo will always hold a special place in Caitlyn’s heart, as he was her introduction to the world of AKC sports and so much more. Caitlyn hadn’t planned on adding a mixed breed to her life, but when she saw his videos and pictures, she knew instantly he was meant to be hers.
From the very start, he jumped into every adventure with her — becoming not only her heart dog, but also her main demo dog for training clients and a true partner in the sporting world. “Whether it’s training, competing, or just having fun, Ludo has always been my ‘do-it-all’ dog, giving his absolute best in everything we take on together.”
Kylo Harsley CAX FCAT5 FITG owned by Kimberly Harsley of Fort Mill, SC
Kimberly met Kylo in September 2021 through a neighbor, a veterinary technician who was fostering him after he’d been abandoned outside a clinic. Just 6 weeks old and weighing only 1.2 pounds, Kylo was irresistibly cute. Kimberly offered to help foster him, and within a few short weeks, it was clear he had found his forever home!
Despite his rough start, Kylo has always been a happy and playful pup. When Kimberly was new to Fast CAT/CAT, Kylo loved watching his feist sister, ReyRey, race. That inspired Kimberly to enter him in his first Fast CAT fun run in April 2022. It took several runs for Kylo to understand what the white plastic “bunny” was all about, but once he did, he was unstoppable, earning his BCAT, DCAT, and FCAT titles in just 18 months and clocking his fastest time (22 mph) on March 31, 2023.
Kylo’s athleticism is impressive given his unique mix—Chihuahua, Cocker Spaniel, Pit Bull, and Boxer—and his 30-pound frame. His first CAT run was on Oct. 22, 2022 which he passed with flying colors.
Kylo truly shines in the CAT runs, preferring the longer course and demonstrating incredible stamina and enthusiasm. On April 6, 2025, he earned his CAX title in Charlotte, NC, at an event hosted by Kimberly’s home club, the Piedmont Kennel Club. “Kylo has become such an integral part of the family, and I’m incredibly proud of everything he’s accomplished.” Kimberly can’t wait to see how many more titles he’ll rack up in the future.
Geralt Of Ruffia CAX FCAT2 owned by Elise & Mike Tompkins of Inman, SC
When Elise and Mike adopted a skinny puppy about three years ago, they had no idea how important dog sports would become. What started as playing chase in the backyard has now turned into an intense love for Fast CAT and CAT.
From the first fun run, Geralt’s love for the sport is contagious. His signature shrill barking of excitement and parading with his disc after catching the bag always brings smiles to faces. Geralt loves trying to outsmart the lure on the CAT field, which the Time to Fly Performance Dog Sports team always makes a challenge.
Geralt’s love for dog sports started with Fast CAT and CAT, and it has now expanded to advanced titles in dock diving and barn hunt. Geralt earned his CAX in May 2025 with the Time to Fly Performance Dog Sports team in Charlotte, North Carolina. Team Geralt can’t wait for the remainder of the season!
WSC Black Star Onyx CD BN RA CAX BCAT CGC owned by Jennifer Strubinger & Lisabeth Wotherspoon of Milton, NH
Onyx came to Jennifer and Lisabeth from the streets of Mississippi in 2018 at almost a year old. They started her out in barn hunt, scent work and rally. She had some confidence issues, and scent work really helped with that.
Since her older “brother” loves coursing, Jennifer and Lisabeth tried Onyx in that as well. “In the beginning, she would take off like a rocket, then get distracted as soon as she rounded a corner; she thought that there were far cooler things to check out in the environment than some silly trash bags,” Jennifer said. “But she has really grown to love the sport and grabs the bags at the end of her run. She still takes off like a shot, low to the ground, kicking grass up behind her.”
Her CAX was earned May 22, 2025, with Bayshore Companion Dog Club in East Freehold, NJ. Scent work is still her primary sport, followed by obedience and rally, as there aren’t many coursing events in New England. “She is a loving girl who really enjoys working and wants to please.”
Photo by Karen Ogden of Sirius photography
Apollo Brandon RN CAX FCAT2 CGC TKN owned by Jonathan Brandon of Guyton, GA
Apollo is Jonathan’s 10-year-old “best friend.” He was born in upstate New York where they connected and bonded for life. He and Jonathan have traveled the region competing in Rally, Fast CAT. A lot of people have seen him running in these events never knowing his name is Apollo because on the field Jonathan calls him “Fat Boy.” With his never-quit attitude Apollo gives 110% to everything he does.
Apollo has captivated the hearts of many through his viral dancing on TikTok, putting on trick and obedience shows at the nursing homes and parks and being cast in Snoop Dogg’s film “The Underdoggs” on Amazon Prime. “Apollo maybe 10 years old but he still acts as if he’s still a puppy who still has a lot in the tank,” Jonathan said. “He’s so dedicated to what he does he never ceases to amaze me or whoever is watching him.” He earned his CAX title on March 23, 2025, at the Savannah Kennel Club.
Congratulations also to these dogs on earning their CAX titles:
- Gcac’s Dance Your Cares Away CD BN RE CAX FCAT owned by Jennifer Swinson of Brunswick, GA
- Oscar Escamilla CAX owned by Monique Escamilla of New Orleans, LA
- Clean Sweep From Safe Haven RN CAX BCAT ACT2 owned by Susan Zimmerman of Warren, OH
Congratulations to these dogs on adding more CAX titles to their names:
- Meeka Schmeeka Baker CAX2 FCAT2 CGC FITB owned by Michele Louise of Baker, GA
- LSK’s Beauty Of The Islands AXP MJP MFP T2BP CAX3 FCAT3 RATM CZ8B DS DJA AJ TKP owned by Amanda Lackey of Hoover, AL
- Red Rock’s I’M The One CAX5 FCAT owned by Anita Rabidou of Montgomery, AL
- Rey Harsley CAX2 FCAT9 FITG owned by Kimberly Noraine of Harsley, SC
Fast CAT
AKC ranks the fastest dogs of each breed in Fast CAT. Congratulations to the top five fastest All American Dogs in each height division! The speed shown is an average of the dog’s three top speeds for the season up to September 3, 2025:
18” or Greater
| 1 | Mc’s Mayday CA FCAT | 32.89 |
| 2 | Riley Blount BCAT | 32.53 |
| 3 | Sincity’s Veritaserum CAX FCAT10 ONYX DJ CGCA CGCU TKA VHMA FITG | 32.50 |
| 4 | Lit The Raisin Alliance BCAT | 32.36 |
| 5 | Gim’s Treacle | 32.16 |
12” up to under 18”
| 1 | This Girl Is On Fire MX MXJ MJB XF CA FCAT4 RATN | 31.39 |
| 2 | Sincity’s Polyjuice Potion FDC CAX FCAT4 ONYX RATS CZ8B DE DM HDM CGCA CGCU TKA VHMA FITG | 31.31 |
| 3 | Missjiff’s Lil Boomerang BCAT | 30.50 |
| 4 | Black Ink FCAT10 | 30.45 |
| 5 | Sincity’S Social Climber BCAT | 30.29 |
Below 12”
| 1 | Miss Brindi Brindle FCAT13 FITB | 26.22 |
| 2 | Spacedogs Little Dipper BCAT | 25.24 |
| 3 | Talia Grace’s Crystal Blue Persuasion BCAT | 25.24 |
| 4 | Toni Bennett RN FDC FCAT3 CGCA TKE FITG FTI | 24.89 |
| 5 | On Target’s Defying Gravity DCAT | 24.74 |
Rally
New Rally Champions (RACH)
Congratulations to these dogs on earning the Rally Champion title:
- RACH Ryder In The Storm CDX RM3 RAE2 CGC TKI owned by Diane Sedberry of Fort Lauderdale, FL
- RACH Gella Bean CDX PCD BN GN RM2 RAE2 NA NAJ NF TKA owned by Jo Thompson of Duluth, MN
- RACH Sadie Drewniany CD RM2 RAE2 CGC TKA owned by Anna Drewniany of Phoenix, AZ
- RACH Tippytoes RM6 RAE4 FDC FCAT2 CGCA CGCU TKI ATT FITB owned by Linda Betz of Ocala, FL
Obedience
New Utility Dogs (UD)
Keahi Izumi UD owned by Jacquie & Randon Izumi of Aiea, HI
It started when Jacquie fell in love with Dachshunds. She had been wishing for a male red long haired Dachshund and her prayers were answered when a 5-year-old dog became available at the Hawaii Humane Society in May 2018. He was a bit frightened and wasn’t very fond of car rides but bringing him home to three other dogs went well.
Now that he was in a loving home, Jacquie’s next step was to enroll him in the AKC Canine Partners program and start training him in obedience. They entered trials and got their CD title in June 2019.
Next was Open, which was a “bumpy road,” Jacquie said. “A bit of a challenge with several failings, but we succeeded, achieving High in Trial with 195.50 in January 2022.”
Utility was very new to Jacquie and something she knew very little about. It was a bit of a struggle with multiple disappointments and when she realized that Keahi wasn’t ready, she decided to just work on the routines until he understood. After a few months they tried again but Keahi still wasn’t getting it.
They continued to fail to the point he wasn’t enjoying it as much and Jacquie noticed he was becoming fearful and nervous in the ring. She realized it might be too stressful for him to go through another trial. “However, with the help of my dear dog friends I hung in there. It gave me confidence and hope. And in April 2025 we got our very first ever UD. What a thrill.”
Jacquie encourages those out there struggling to not give up, no matter what. “Keahi and I may not have finished with a great score, but we finished. And that’s all that counts.”
Keahi earned his UD at the Siberian Husky Club of Hawaii trial at Mililani Park on April 26, 2025.
Anderson’s Riley UD GN RM RAE owned by Sharon Anderson of Aiken, SC
Riley began his competition obedience career at 8 months old, in October 2022. “He has been a joy to train and compete with,” Sharon said.
Riley and his self-trained owner/handler, Sharon, have successfully pursued obedience titles and recently achieved their last goal of UD, completing the title on May 22, 2025, at the Asheville Kennel Club trial in Fletcher, NC.
Shortly after getting his CDX title, Riley began competing in Rally. He has flown through the levels and is halfway to his RACH title.
New Utility Dog Excellent (UDX)
RACH Leash Free Living’s Mandatory Party UDX OM1 RM2 RAE2 FDC CGC TKN owned by Samantha & Craig Miyamoto of Severn, MD
Lemon is named after Tina Fey’s character on 30 Rock (Liz Lemon). She was rehomed to the Miyamotos when she was a year old with behavioral issues, and training has transformed her into a social and mannerly dog.
She completed her Utility Dog Excellent title on May 4 at Catoctin Kennel Club. The road to UDX has not been easy for Lemon, and Samantha had to work diligently on their skills. She cried happy tears when the judge let her know they had qualified for her 10th UDX leg. Lemon’s success in the obedience and rally rings has been a great addition to her resume and helped her land acting jobs along the way, including Dolly Parton’s Pet Gala and a TV series that will be out this fall.
When Lemon is not training or trialing, she is hanging out with her two sisters, a Doberman Pinscher and a Pumi. When she thinks Samantha is lining any one of them up for a photo, she runs over and sits as closely as possible so she can be included. She loves riding on paddle boards, stealing blankets off the couch, and declaring her excitement by “woo woo-ing” at Samantha and Craig. She is an expert level snuggler and an essential part of her warmup routine to any performance is a few minutes being held while she rests her head on your chest. “I’m so proud of her for her hard work towards the UDX,” Samantha said. “Good girl, Lemon!”
Congratulations also to this dog on earning the RACH title:
- Steve Rogers UDX RM CGC TKA owned by Karen & Joseph Pollard of Tyler, TX
SCENT WORK
New SWD (Scent Work Detective)
Bound To Get Caught By The Sniffbear BN RN SWD SWME owned by Jamie Buethner of Fargo, ND
Clyde joined the family of sisters, Jaime and Tracee Buethner, and their dog, Bear, at 3 months of age. Scent work has changed his life. After struggling with severe food and skin allergies and countless vet appointments, Clyde became very environmentally sensitive. When he started scent work class, he refused to walk into any rooms for six months, let alone perform any searching. Jaime even asked her trainers if they should quit and were emphatically told no.
So, Clyde and Jaime continued on what would become a remarkable journey. Clyde slunk into his first trial with terror in his eyes, and Jaime’s only goal was to get him into the building to try. They stuck with it and were growing as a team when they encountered another setback. Clyde was spooked, got loose and was chased down by a motorcycle, resulting in him becoming terrified of anything with a motor.
After spending last summer focusing on golf cart desensitization, Clyde and Jaime started clicking as a team, and Clyde became a completely different dog. He now strides confidently into search areas with his head high and tail wagging. On April 26 at the Red River North Dog Obedience Club, Clyde joined Bear in earning his SWD title. In June, Clyde earned his SWEE which completed all His Elite titles in the odor division.
In addition to scent work, Clyde and Jaime compete in Fast CAT, rally, obedience and agility. Jaime is grateful to have a sport like scent work that transformed Clyde and deepened their bond.
Banyu SWD SWME SHDEE SHDM CGCA TKA FITS FTI owned by Lenora Volk of Dallas, TX
At around 5 years old, Banyu was found in Arlington, TX, swimming in a pond at a Buddhist temple. The name “Banyu” means water.
He was heartworm positive and missing a foot, but despite being in rough shape, his sweet nature quickly made him a favorite at the shelter. Banyu’s early years may be a mystery, but his second act has been full of joyful adventures. Banyu loves swimming and hiking. He has hiked trails from coast to coast including 14,000-foot mountains in Colorado. He and Lenora have logged over 6,000 miles together thus far. Without a doubt though, Banyu’s first love is scent work. Lenora was looking for a sport in which three-legged dogs were allowed to compete and a good friend from his rescue group suggested scent work.
They were hooked from day one. At 8 years old Banyu was technically a ‘senior’ when entered in his first scent work trial, but neither his late start nor being a “tripod” kept him from exceeding Lenora’s wildest expectations. Along their scent work journey, Banyu has earned High In Trial at every level and has accumulated around 135 placements, almost half of which were first place finishes. Banyu placed regional in the Central Regional Scent Work Championship in the Advanced class, and he and Lenora are delighted to have the opportunity to compete in the first AKC Scent Work Master National.
“Our proudest achievement thus far has been earning our Scent Work Detective title in May of this year, doing so with our wonderful NorTEX Scent Work Club family cheering us on,” Lenora said.
Congratulations also to this dog on earning the SWD title:
- Lunatic Fringe-Still Frankie FDC SWD SWME CGC TKI owned by Wendy Henes of North St. Paul, MN
TRACKING
New TD (Tracking Dog)
Sir Isaac Newton Bc RE TD AJP OFP SWME SHDN CGC owned by Karen & Jim Allen of Spokane Valley, WA
Newton is a Border Collie mix from a farm. Karen fell in love with him at first sight when he was a 12-week-old puppy. He was the last of his litter, mostly white with splashes of merle. Karen and Jim love the outdoors and hiking, and Newton has always enjoyed sniffing the world.
“He is my partner, the other half of my AKC Scent Work judging team,” Karen said.
On their first time out in tracking, Newton earned his Tracking Dog title on May 4. As they began their track up the hillside, Karen told herself to be patient as he paused on the first leg. As they went on, he took a corner, swung back the other direction, and then back to the original direction. They were off – just as he had done during practices, working the scent and then realizing it had disappeared.
Then he took another corner, another, no whistle yet, another corner and it felt good to Karen. After a long stretch, his excitement built, and then there was the glove!
“Wow, it is beautiful to watch him work with confidence! It is amazing to see him sniff a glove to start the track and follow the track layer’s scent to the glove at the end,” Karen said.
“I am so proud of him. I will never forget the feeling as we headed back over the hillside, me waving the glove in my hand!”
Karen and Newton will continue their sniffing journey with more tracking, more Scent Work Detective work, hiking, and being best partners in judging.
Silas Killpack TD SWA SBAE CGCA CGCU owned by Deborah Killpack of Helena, MT
Deborah has three amazing dogs, ranging from 10 to 2 years old. Silas is the baby. “From 9 weeks old he was amazing,” she said. “He seemed to be a tracking dog from that early age.”
When her family walked, Silas would run in circles around them. When he came upon scent of various animals, he would make little squeaks and take off on the track. Deborah competes in AKC Scent Work with all her dogs; she has a dog training facility where she teaches the sport. However, she knew nothing about tracking.
She began volunteering at four tracking events per year in her area, and members of the host club began to offer suggestions for teaching Silas. The more they learned, the more they loved tracking. Deborah hosted a few tracking clinics at her facility, which she and Silas loved. At the last clinic, the instructor certified Silas to track, and they were competing in their first and only tracking trial days later.
In the trial they entered, Deborah drew the alternate track of four tracks laid. Dogs on the first three tracks were a German Shepherd, a Belgian Tervuren, and a Belgian Malinois. They ran beautifully and got TDs. The pressure was on. Deborah had a track in alfalfa higher than her waist. Silas is a 25 pound dog. Off he went from the starting line. Deborah could see her line but not her dog at the end of it.
Silas ran that track just like the “big dogs” and also got his TD. “Silas is an amazingly quick study at everything,” Deborah said. “I am blessed to have him and his brothers as my partners.”
Congratulations also to this dog on earning the Tracking Dog title:
- Volpyansky’s Roxy TD owned by Mila Volpyansky of Northbrook, IL
TRICK DOG
TKE (Trick Dog Elite Performer)
Mya The Miracle CGC TKE owned by Victoria Harmon & Laurie Hanscom Harmon of Albany Township, ME
Mya is a 9-year-old Australian Cattle Dog/Beagle mix who has been training since she was a puppy. Rescued with her siblings after contracting parvo, she has made a remarkable recovery and has grown into a skilled dog.
She loves agility and trick training, and her favorite obstacle is the tunnel, which she can navigate with incredible speed. Her favorite trick is the orbit, and she is highly motivated to learn new things.
“After years of training and multiple applications, Mya has finally achieved our highest goal of reaching the top level of tricks, and I am so proud of her and can’t wait to see our future adventures,” Victoria said. “A huge thank you to Lucky Pup Rescue – Kennebunkport Maine for bringing us together.”
Mochi Lee Domingo CGCA CGCU TKE owned by Angela & Richard Domingo of Las Vegas, NV
Mochi was a rescue from Furgotten Friends Pet Rescue, founded by Manda Baker, who is also Mochi’s groomer. He is a smart and playful Maltese mix who is eager to please.
Shortly after he adjusted to his forever home and to Angela and Richard, they hired a private trainer. They found out quickly that he was not an agility or a rally dog, but loved doing tricks!
In parallel to CGC, CGC and CGCU certifications, he pursued the Trick Dog certifications. He achieved the top level TKE in Las Vegas on May 10, 2025, after less than 18 months of training.
Mochi loves to play fetch with a tennis ball in the park. He also loves having Angela and Richard throw his toy at home… incessantly. He can be a social butterfly at the park, wanting to say hi to people and dogs. “We are proud to be his humans and are enjoying his quirky personality and all the tricks he does for us.”
Jacobs’ Little Lacey Lou TKE owned by Tricia Jacobs of Hornell, NY
Lacey Lou was picked up as a stray and held at an inner-city shelter in Rochester, NY in July 2024. She’d been at the shelter for about a week when Tricia saw her picture online and decided to go meet her. She was friendly and responsive to treats, a great start for a potential trick dog. Tricia adopted Lacey that day: July 19, 2024.
She was frightened and had to be assisted up to the kennel in the back of Tricia’s van. Tricia drove over an hour straight to her rural outdoor training facility at K Nine F.I.T. where the first thing Lacey Lou did was roll in the grass and scratch her back!
Lacey was just under a year old. Over the next few months Lacey had to overcome many obstacles. She was sick with several ailments, was very mouthy and excitable, and biting up to 12 times a day during training. The use of positive reinforcement and game-based training was life changing for Lacey.
Their virtual trick dog videos were shot on location at Greenbelly Studios in Hornell, NY, and evaluated online. “I am thankful and blessed to share Lacey’s success, earning her TKE, and happy to report that Lacey is no longer biting, and is continuing to grow and thrive because of reward-based training!”
River Jensen TKE owned by Kim Jensen of Caledonia, WI
River, smart and active, enjoys physical exercise as much as mental stimulation. She loves short walks, playing in a disc dog league, and has tried lure coursing and Fast CAT. She has recently been taking lessons for Barn Hunt.
Helping around the house and having a job to do are important to River. When Kim goes downstairs to do laundry, River follows and waits to be given a small piece of laundry to carry upstairs, because she knows she will be given a small treat for helping. When they walk to the mailbox, River carries a piece of junk mail back to the house, and of course, gets another small treat.
River received her Elite Performer – TKE – title on June 9, 2025. “Trick Dog was a very fun activity for us to do at home,” Kim said. “Thank you to AKC for offering Trick Dog as an activity for us to achieve in.”
Congratulations also to these dogs on earning their TKE:
- Let’s Start A Ryatt CGC TKE owned by Brittany Chandler & Brian Christensen of Fountain, CO
- Luce Carter BN RE FDC ACT1 SWN SINE SENE SBNE SEA CGCA TKE FITB owned by Jennifer Ann Carter of Louisa, VA
- Lucky LaFont CGCA CGCU TKE owned by Linda LaFont of Las Vegas, NV