Flyball is a high speed relay race, and while any dog can participate, the training required can be immense. Jennings said the Chattanooga Flyball Club has trained numerous dogs in the sport. It’s a trick that even old dogs can learn, too.“The NASCAR of dog sports.” That’s how Angie Jennings describes flyball, and with good reason.
As a longstanding member of the Chattanooga Chomp Flyball Club, she can attest that races often come down to the thousandths of seconds.
Chattanooga Chomp has been together for over a decade, training their dogs at Play Dog eXcellent in Red Bank to compete in national and local tournaments. Flyball functions like a relay race of four different dogs jumping over obstacles, and dogs of any age and breed can participate. Various types of team races, such as one for senior dogs, ensure that older or smaller dogs can compete on an even playing field.
“This is a game where you’re there to have fun with your dog,” Jennings said. “It’s such a friendly environment despite the competition. When we go to a tournament, everyone helps each other out.”
Jennings initially got involved after trying to find a suitable way to put her young Westie Terrier’s energy to use 11 years ago. After finding out about Chattanooga Chomp, her dog took to it immediately, and Jennings was hooked.