In the world of canine sports, where speed and agility reign supreme, two activities stand out for their exhilarating nature: Fast CAT® (Coursing Ability Test) and lure coursing. Both sports showcase the innate athleticism and drive of dogs, but they differ in their formats, rules, and objectives. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Fast CAT® and lure coursing, we’ll try to understand their unique characteristics, and exploring what makes each sport a thrilling pursuit for dogs and their handlers.
What is Fast CAT® ?
Fast CAT®, short for Coursing Ability Test, is a relatively new and rapidly growing sport authorizes by the American Kennel Club (AKC). Inspired by the sport of lure coursing, Fast CAT® provides an opportunity for dogs of all breeds and sizes to showcase their speed in a controlled environment. The premise of Fast CAT® is simple yet thrilling: dogs run individually, chasing a lure (typically a plastic bag) attached to a pulley system along a straight 100-yard course. The lure travels at a variable speed, which simulates the unpredictable movement of prey.
Key Elements of Fast CAT®:
Speed: Fast CAT® emphasizes raw speed, with dogs sprinting at full throttle to catch the lure as quickly as possible. The sport showcases the natural athleticism and speed potential of dogs, regardless of breed.
Timing: Each dog’s performance is measured by its time to complete the 100-yard course. Accurate timing is crucial, as it determines the dog’s ranking and eligibility for titles and awards.
Accessibility: Fast CAT® offers inclusivity, welcoming dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages to participate. Whether a sleek Greyhound or a compact Dachshund, every dog has the opportunity to showcase its speed and prowess on the course.
What is Lure Coursing ?
Lure coursing, in contrast to Fast CAT®, traces its origins to the ancient hunting instincts of sighthounds, such as Greyhounds, Whippets, and Salukis. Developed as a sport in the mid-20th century, lure coursing simulates the pursuit of live game in a controlled setting. Unlike Fast CAT®’s straight course, lure coursing courses are typically more intricate, featuring twists, turns, and obstacles to mimic the unpredictability of hunting terrain.
Key Elements of Lure Coursing:
Simulation of Hunting: Lure coursing stays true to its origins by simulating the chase of live game. Dogs follow a mechanized lure, usually a plastic bag or a cloth, that zigzags across a field or open space, mimicking the movements of prey.
Agility and Instinct: Lure coursing challenges dogs not only to run at high speeds but also to navigate obstacles and terrain variations. It taps into their instinctual hunting behaviors, including keen sight, agility, and decision-making skills.
Breed-Specific Emphasis: While lure coursing is open to dogs of various breeds, it particularly highlights the innate abilities of sighthounds, whose anatomy and instincts are finely tuned for high-speed pursuit and agility.
Fast CAT vs. Lure Coursing
Comparing Fast CAT® and Lure Coursing: While both Fast CAT® and lure coursing celebrate the speed and agility of dogs, they differ significantly in their formats and objectives. Here’s a comparative overview:
Course Design: Fast CAT® features a straight 100-yard course, while lure coursing courses are more varied, incorporating twists, turns, and obstacles.
Objective: Fast CAT® emphasizes raw speed and sprinting ability, while lure coursing simulates the chase of live game, tapping into dogs’ hunting instincts and agility.
Inclusivity: Fast CAT® welcomes dogs of all breeds and sizes, whereas lure coursing often places a greater emphasis on sighthounds and their hunting heritage.
Timing vs. Judging: In Fast CAT®, dogs’ performances are measured by timing, while lure coursing involves judging based on criteria such as enthusiasm, agility, and ability to follow the lure.
On a final note
In the world of canine speed sports, Fast CAT® and lure coursing both stand out as thrilling sports that celebrate the athleticism, instincts, and bond between dogs and their handlers. Whether sprinting in pursuit of a mechanical lure or navigating a simulated hunting course, dogs showcase their innate abilities and passion for the chase. While Fast CAT® emphasizes speed and inclusivity, lure coursing pays homage to the ancient art of hunting, particularly highlighting the prowess of sighthounds. Ultimately, both sports offer unique experiences and opportunities for dogs to shine, captivating participants and spectators alike with their energy and excitement.
