DockDogs Canine Aquatic Competition Steals the Show at Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic
By HERE News
The world’s premier canine aquatic competition, DockDogs, charmed spectators and competitors alike at the Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic from March 22-24 at the State Fairgrounds in Columbia. The annual event, a celebration of South Carolina’s abundant natural resources, showcased DockDogs for an ever-appreciative audience.
Unleashing the Fun at DockDogs
People who think that fun and competition can’t mix have probably not attended a DockDogs event. DockDogs combines the energetic activities dogs love – running, jumping, and swimming – into one exciting sport. At the Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic, dog owners had the opportunity to sign up their beloved canines and watch them compete in breathtaking leaps and daring swims.
Sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance of South Carolina, the Classic features an impressive number of events, including educational seminars, hunting and boating safety demonstrations, contests, and live animal exhibits. This year’s event was no exception, with appearances from world-class professional bass anglers Jimmy Houston and Roland Martin on the afternoon of March 22.
Over 40,000 visitors attended the Classic this year, and the DockDogs competition was a major draw. The canine athletes showcased their talents in three categories – Big Air, Extreme Vertical, and Speed Retrieve. The energy of the dogs and their performance drew lots of cheer and applause from the crowd.
A Classic Celebration of Wildlife
The Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic is the largest event of its kind in the state, attracting a broad audience of outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families. This sizeable event is managed by the Harry R. E. Hampton Memorial Wildlife Fund and the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, both of which are committed to promoting wise stewardship of natural resources in South Carolina.
Other attractions at this year’s event included The Hawg Trough, a 5,000-gallon mobile fish tank showcasing local species, and the SCDNR Aquatic Education Pond, where children were given the chance to catch a catfish. The combination of environment, education, and entertainment proved to be a big hit for visitors.
Wrapping-up the Event
The Palmetto Sportsmen’s Classic has always been about more than just hunting and fishing; it’s about appreciating and understanding the natural environment. The inclusion of DockDogs brings a unique angle to the event, combining the joy of pet ownership with the excitement of a high-energy sporting competition.
The highly successful three-day classic concluded on March 24, leaving participants and spectators with fond memories and looking forward to next year’s event.
