A junior handler and her German Shorthaired Pointer posing with a new title ribbon on giant building blocks that spell out "BCAT".

NWAKC hosts several coursing ability events throughout the year, including Coursing Ability Tests (CATs) and Fast CATs. These events take place in both the spring and fall, offering opportunities for dogs to showcase their speed and agility in a fun, competitive setting.

Coursing Ability Tests allow dogs to demonstrate their natural instinct to chase, while Fast CATs focus on the speed aspect of coursing. Both events are designed to promote the health and fitness of our canine companions while fostering a sense of community among dog owners and enthusiasts.

Whether you are a seasoned competitor or new to the world of canine sports, we invite you to join us for these exciting events. Bring your four-legged friends out to experience the thrill of coursing and connect with fellow dog lovers right here in Northwest Arkansas!

How Does Fast CAT Work? 

  • Fast CAT is a timed straight race of 100 yards. 

  • Dogs run singularly. 

  • The dog’s time to complete the 100 yard dash is converted into MPHs. 

  • A handicap system is applied to a dog’s MPH to determine the number of points earned. The handicap system is based on the height of the dog at its withers:

    • 18”or greater = handicap is 1.0

    • 12” up to less than 18” = handicap is 1.5

    • Below 12” = handicap is 2.0. 

  • Points = MPH multiplied by the dog’s handicap 

  • Fast CAT titles suffix titles are earned at designated milestones:

    • BCAT = 150 points

    • DCAT = 500 points

    • FCAT = 1,000 points

    • FCAT# = every additional 500 points 

Fast CAT Points Calculator

Coursing events for 2024 are complete.

Check back early 2025 for more information on our April coursing event plans!

Coursing events are held at the Washington County Fairgrounds in Fayetteville, AR.