In an effort to bring fresh excitement to the annual Farley Fest, Milbank Chamber of Commerce is set to introduce DockDogs®, a unique canine water sport. Scheduled for June 21-22, 2025, this thrilling event will be held at Lake Farley Park alongside the traditional festivities from June 20-22, 2025. Participants and spectators alike can anticipate engaging in three distinct disciplines of DockDogs® that promise exhilarating displays of athleticism and fun. This inclusive competition welcomes all dogs irrespective of breed or skill level, allowing them to compete with their handlers in various categories such as Big Air®, Extreme Vertical®, and Speed Retrieve®.
Revolutionizing Farley Fest: DockDogs® Takes Center Stage
As summer approaches, the picturesque town of Milbank, South Dakota, gears up for a transformational edition of its celebrated Farley Fest. In a novel move aimed at amplifying the festival's charm, the Milbank Chamber of Commerce has decided to incorporate the captivating world of DockDogs® into the mix. Set against the scenic backdrop of Lake Farley Park, this innovative addition offers visitors an opportunity to witness extraordinary feats performed by man’s best friend during the weekend extravaganza.
The event unfolds over two days, featuring three fascinating categories designed to test the agility, strength, and speed of participating dogs. In Big Air®, competitors dash along a 36-foot dock before leaping into the water after a tossed item, with jumps measured electronically. Extreme Vertical® challenges participants to ascend progressively higher heights to snatch airborne bumpers, culminating in an intense finale to determine the ultimate champion. Lastly, Speed Retrieve® pits dogs against time as they race down the dock, dive into the pool, and swim swiftly to retrieve objects at the far end.
This family-friendly competition is open to all breeds and sizes, ensuring every enthusiastic dog owner gets a chance to showcase their pet's talents. Handlers must be at least seven years old, with special provisions made for youth participants aged between seven and fourteen through the Youth Handler division. Jamie Henderson, Executive Director of the Milbank Area Chamber of Commerce, expressed her delight at integrating this dynamic activity into Farley Fest, anticipating it would provide lasting memories for attendees across generations.
Pre-registration remains available online until one week prior to the event via the official DockDogs® website, while on-site registration options exist daily. For further details regarding schedules and rules, interested parties are encouraged to visit the dedicated webpage.
From a journalist's perspective, the inclusion of DockDogs® within Farley Fest exemplifies how communities can adapt traditional celebrations by embracing modern attractions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of innovation in preserving cultural heritage while simultaneously appealing to broader audiences. By encouraging participation among diverse groups, including children and their pets, such initiatives foster stronger community bonds and create shared experiences worth cherishing long after the festival concludes.