Does your dog have endless energy and love to run?
Dog owners from across Texoma are invited to participate in the upcoming Bluebonnet Norfolk Terrier Club (TBNTC) FAST CAT event, sanctioned by the American Kennel Club (AKC), taking place November 6–8, 2026, at Forest Park in Denison.
The Bluebonnet Norfolk Terrier Club is a regional organization dedicated to promoting responsible ownership of Norfolk Terriers, supporting dog enthusiasts, and mentoring newcomers to the breed. The club serves as a valuable resource for owners seeking education, community, and connections with experienced breeders and exhibitors.
FAST CAT, which stands for Fast Coursing Ability Test, is a timed 100-yard dash in which dogs chase a lure while running individually. The lure is attached to a cable system powered by a motor that rapidly pulls it along the course. Once released, most dogs instinctively pursue the lure, racing to the finish line while their speed is electronically recorded.
FAST CAT has become one of the AKC's most popular performance events, introducing countless pet owners to the world of canine sports. It provides a safe and exciting way for dogs to compete without direct interaction with other dogs. Unlike traditional coursing events, dogs run one at a time and chase an artificial lure rather than live animals.
Dogs can earn AKC titles based on their performance. Three qualifying runs earn a Coursing Ability (CA) title, 10 qualifying runs earn a Coursing Ability Advanced (CAA) title, and 25 qualifying runs earn a Coursing Ability Excellent (CAX) title. The top five ranked dogs in each breed category are invited to compete in the following year's FAST CAT Invitational. Annual breed rankings are available through the AKC.
After recognizing the lack of AKC-sanctioned events in North Texas, the Bluebonnet Norfolk Terrier Club decided to bring more opportunities to local dog owners. Shelley Minnis, TBNTC board member and FAST CAT event chair, believes the event fills an important need in the region.
“When you are breeding and raising dogs, AKC conformation and performance events are important for the canine community,” says Minnis. “It's a fun way for dogs and their owners to participate in an AKC-sanctioned event. What makes it even better is that it is a blended event, meaning non-AKC registered dogs can participate alongside registered dogs. It really is a fun event.”
For Minnis, the biggest draw is the bond between owners and their pets.
“The best part is that dog owners get to do something with their pets that the dogs genuinely love,” she says. “We want to encourage responsible dog ownership, provide opportunities to socialize with other dog owners, and create a fun, family-oriented atmosphere. We've enjoyed watching this event grow and hope it continues to do so.”
That growth has already become evident.
“This is our third year hosting the event, and it gets bigger every year,” Minnis says. “We're even starting to see participants traveling from out of state to compete. We love being part of the community, so it's wonderful to have visitors experience Denison because of our event.”
To participate, dogs must be at least 12 months old. AKC-registered purebred dogs from recognized breeds are eligible, as are mixed-breed dogs and dogs ineligible for AKC registration through the AKC Canine Partners program. Dogs enrolled in the Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program and Foundation Stock Service (FSS) breeds are also eligible. Spayed and neutered dogs may compete, as may dogs with limited or conditional registration.
Female dogs in season are not eligible to participate and should not be brought to the event. All dogs will be inspected for soundness, fitness, and overall condition by the event's inspection committee before competing.
For more information, visit TBNTC.org or email TBNTC@gmail.com
Forest Park is located at 300 W. Crawford Street in Denison, adjacent to Munson Stadium.