Press release from Explore Asheville and UNCA:
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (May 17, 2024)UNC Asheville and Explore Asheville proudly announce that the prestigious American Kennel Club (AKC®) Disc Dog Challenge will take place June 2 in Asheville, North Carolina. Set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, nearly 45 dog athletes will compete at the recently renovated Olympic-level Karl Straus Track and Field facility on campus.
“We are thrilled to welcome the (AKC®) Disc Dog Challenge to Asheville and showcase our community’s passion for pups,” said Vic Isley, President and CEO of Explore Asheville and the Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority. “This event not only strengthens our reputation as a premiere dog-friendly destination but brings a lively, nationally televised sporting event to a newly renovated facility made possible in part by the power of travel and hospitality.”
The AKC Disc Dog Challenge, hosted in collaboration with the UpDog Challenge, brings together serious dog athletes for an exhilarating display of talent. This fast-paced and fun sport transforms the simple game of fetch into a series of exciting competitions. From Freestyle to Time Warp, Frizgility to Far Out, dog athletes and their humans will compete in various games, showcasing their skills and agility.
“I’m extremely proud and excited to partner with Explore Asheville to host the AKC Disc Dog Challenge,” said Director of Athletics Janet R. Cone. “We have never hosted an event like this on our campus, and I cannot think of a better place to showcase Asheville’s love for dogs than by helping put this event on.”
The AKC Disc Dog Challenge is scheduled for June 2 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public; the first 400 spectators, including leashed, well-behaved dogs, will be able to observe the competition from bleachers. The competition will be filmed to air on ESPN later this summer. Concessions and local food trucks will be available.
The Karl Straus Track in Western North Carolina has been newly renovated into an Olympic-level facility including Mondo Track Surface. This benefits Bulldog student-athletes, coaches, and staff, while also attracting local, regional, and national athletic events. The improvements include an eight-lane resurfaced track, a new video scoreboard, and additional seating. The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority invested $1,500,000 in the renovation and expansion of the track.
Will ESPN broadcast proceeds go to UNCA or TDA or anywhere locally to help the locals?