337: 2024 AKC National Agility Championship Preview

·49 min·4 clips

Jennifer reveals she's never done a nationals preview podcast and has dug up non-obvious information for competitors.

The episode begins with hosts Jennifer and Sarah introducing the preview for the 2024 AKC National Agility Championship. They mention the event dates (March 14-17) and location (Perry, Georgia, near Atlanta). Viewing options are discussed, primarily through AKC TV, with a warning about scams claiming to offer paid streams. The structure of the event is detailed: Thursday features a warm-up standard run where handlers can use toys and create their own courses. Friday starts with either ISC (International Sweepstakes Class) or Premier Sweepstakes Class, which doesn't affect nationals results but offers prize money, with the 20-inch Premier winner potentially earning $462. The hosts note that ISC entries are surprisingly low, especially in the 20-inch class with only five dogs. The three preliminary rounds—Standard, Jumpers, and Hybrid—occur on Friday and Saturday. The challengers round on Sunday is explained as a 'wild card' for dogs with at least two clean runs but not in finals, with examples of how placements work. Statistics are shared: 1,330 total dogs (942 regular, 388 preferred), with the 20-inch regular class being the largest at 339 entries. The hosts confirm the retirement of the 24 C class at nationals. Judges are discussed, with Zach Davis designing the challengers round and Susan Lettner designing finals, though preliminary round judges are not specified. Returning champions from 2023 are listed, including Andrea Samuels with Gabby (12-inch), Cynthia Horner with Nimble (16-inch), and Amber McCune with Typo (24 C, now in 20-inch). Notable dogs like Jennifer Crank's Sheltie B, who has gained fame, are highlighted. The episode concludes with a promotion for the 'before and after' course, where Jennifer Crank provides real-time analysis of course maps and runs, joined by guest handlers Cynthia Horner (with Nimble) and Amber McCune (with Howie). Sponsors St. Rocco's Treats and Hit It Board are thanked, with discount codes offered.

As heard by us

A clear guide to the championship format, from clean preliminary runs and cumulative scores to the challengers round.

Episode 337 gives the 2024 AKC National Agility Championship a clear frame, treating the format as part of the story rather than setup to hurry through.

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Why you'd press play

You will know what to watch for as Bad Dog Agility previews the upcoming 2024 AKC National Agility Championship.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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