Dog racing events to be held this weekend and next

The hounds will be running for the next two weekends at Misty Rivers Plantation, 117 Cross Dike Road on Puget Island. The first event, on October 1 and 2, is open to all AKC registered pure bred dogs, and is a 100 yard straight course racing event called Fast C.A.T. (Coursing Aptitude Test). Dogs will run singly, their times converted to MPH, and a handicap applied based on the dog's height at the withers. Awards will be given in accordance with these handicapped results, and scores will also be posted on the AKC Fast CAT website for national competition.

The second event, October 8 and 9, will be a regular lure coursing event in which the hounds chase a lure around a random course, and is open to AKC registered sighthounds only. Both events are sponsored by the Willamette Valley Basenjji Club and sanctioned by the AKC. Registration for both evens starts at 8 a.m., and racing around 9 a.m., until completion in mid-afternoon.

The public is invited to attend, and well-leashed dogs are also welcome as spectators. Visitor parking is out front along the driveway, and limited handicapped parking, as well as restrooms, are available on the coursing field out back. Further information is available at 360-562-1925.