Disc dog

The definitive moment came on August 5, 1974, when Alex Stein, a 19-year-old college student from Ohio, and his dog, Ashley Whippet, jumped the fence at a nationally broadcast baseball game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Cincinnati Reds.

Ashley astonished the crowd with his disc-catching, as he ran up to 35 miles per hour (56 km/h) and leaped 9 feet (2.7 m) in the air to snag the disc.

[2] The stunt was so novel that the game was stopped and Joe Garagiola continued to announce the flying disc action on the field.

[3] Competitions also often feature the dynamic freestyle event, which consists of short routines choreographed to music with multiple discs in play.

Men and women generally compete in the same divisions for all disciplines, although the long distance category is sometimes divided by gender.

Short-distance events go by many names, including toss and fetch, mini-distance, throw and catch, and distance/accuracy.

Incredible flips, hyperfast multiple catches, and spectacular vaults make freestyle a popular event with spectators, and it is regarded as the highest level of competitive accomplishment.

The US Disc Dog Nationals (USDDN), which has clubs organizing events in the US, Japan, the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic, Hungary, Canada, Australia and Turkey holds a championship series known as the USDDN Finals and US Disc Dog International Finals.

It is estimated that over one million dogs play flying disc in the United States alone, though only a small percentage participate in organized competitions.

They offer newcomers a way to learn more about the sport, and are a great place for the experienced competitors to give back.

Disc dog clubs are usually active in local animal charities, helping to raise money and awareness for such groups.

Disc dog clubs can be found all over the United States, Europe, Asia, Canada and Australia.

When choosing a disc, it should pass at least a small test – it has to be folded in half and regain initial form without damage.

Discs before play always should be checked for deformations and splinters in order not to damage dogs' teeth and mouth and players' hands.

Frisbee catching isn't just about physical prowess; it also requires mental focus and problem-solving skills.