The 3-2-1 Lift Off Flyball Racing Team was a dream come true for Mary K. Hartney and Wendy J. Keighley. As flyball instructors, they taught several introductory classes for the Brevard County Dog Training Club, did demos around the
area and were featured on Animal Planet. These activities generated enough interest to form a local team. The team was registered with North American Flyball Association, and competed in their first tournament in 2001.
In their first year, the team competed in three tournaments. At the first tournament, the team placed fourth in their divi-
sion on Saturday, and came back on Sunday to win third place.At the second tournament,the team once again placed fourth on Saturday, but came back on Sunday to win first place. By the third tournament, the team was ready to move up to a faster division and seed time. Even at the faster times, the team placed third on Saturday and second Sun- day. At this third tournament, the team received a special trophy for Sportsmanship. The trophy will be held by 3-2-1 Lift Off Flyball Racing Team for one year and then returned to the host team to again be awarded to a team for their sports-
manship. As you can see, the competition really kicks in on the second day not only with our teammates, but with our dogs.
This sport is very demanding, not only for the dogs but also for the handlers. The dogs need to be physically sound and in peak physical condition. Intense training and regular prac-
tice is required to build a successful Flyball Dog. As you will see in our Meet the Team section, different breeds make up a flyball team. Regardless of the breed, if your dog has the stamina, physical conditioning and sheer desire, this may be the sport for you.
