Yesterday, we had the opportunity to run Moxie and her evil twin brother, Ike, in a sport that used to be the exclusive domain of Sight Hounds -- Lure Coursing. Earlier this year, the AKC introduced the Coursing Ability Test (CAT) for all breeds and Julie Poole covered the very first CAT in Georgia in March. There were no Rottweilers in that first CAT and I'm not aware of any that have run in others but we thought it would be a great chance for Moxie and Ike. Moxie has had experience chasing a lure in the Doggie Fun Zone but Ike had never been exposed to the lure. Successfully completing 3 CATs will earn the dogs their CA title and there are additional levels that can be attained by completing additional runs. Dogs run individually and these tests were held on the same courses that the Sight Hounds ran in the Trial. We missed the early morning run since the site was over 2 hrs. from the house but made it for the afternoon run in 90-degree heat and bright sun.

Here's a shot of Moxie just after I released her for the start of her run.



Moxie zooming down the straightaway.



Coming at you.



Digging in for that first hard 90-degree turn.



Getting horizontal in the middle of it.



And digging out of it.



Ike impressing the horses with his speed.



Ike in full flight.



And bringing it home.



I'm proud to report that both pups earned their first qualifying ribbon for their runs. I'm even more proud to report what great kids they were the entire day. Moxie visited several laps of those watching the Trial and gave Rottie hugs. Ike was a perfect gentleman even when the Parson Russell Terriers were wailing like wounded pigs. Overall it was a great day and, for us, a great opportunity to watch Sight Hounds doing what they were bred for. Awesome!! If you ever get a chance to see Greyhounds, Whippets and other Hounds running in a Lure Coursing Trial, I highly recommend it. They can fly. Moxie and Ike can chug. But the day was tremendous fun for everyone.

Jim