Dive into Fun: Canine Water Sports Coming to Milbank’s Farley Fest

{KXLG – Milbank, SD} The Milbank Chamber of Commerce is adding a splash of excitement to its annual Farley Fest celebration this year. For the first time, DockDogs®, a popular canine water sport, will be featured at the festival, a weekend of thrilling competition and tail-wagging entertainment at Lake Farley Park.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 21, and Sunday, June 22, 2025, as these dates for the DockDogs® event. This will run alongside the traditional Farley Fest, which takes place from June 20-22, 2025.

Spectators and participants alike can look forward to witnessing three DockDogs® disciplines:

• Big Air®: Dogs will showcase their leaping abilities as they race down a 36-foot dock and jump into the water after a thrown object. Electronic judging will precisely measure the distance of each jump.
• Extreme Vertical®: In this high-flying challenge, dogs launch themselves upwards to grab a bumper suspended in the air. The height is progressively increased, leading to a thrilling showdown to crown the ultimate vertical champion.
• Speed Retrieve®: It is a race against the clock as dogs sprint down the dock, plunge into the water, and swim to the end of the pool to retrieve an object in the fastest time possible.

The DockDogs® competition is open to all dogs, regardless of breed, size, or skill level. Whether your furry friend is a seasoned aquatic athlete or a first-time jumper, they are welcome to participate. Each team consists of one dog and one handler. Handlers must be at least 7 years old, with a dedicated Youth Handler division available for ages 7-14.

“We’re always looking for exciting ways to enhance Farley Fest, and DockDogs® is a perfect addition,” said Jamie Henderson, Executive Director of the Milbank Area Chamber of Commerce. “This one-of-a-kind event will bring energy, competition, and unforgettable moments for festival-goers of all ages.”

If your dog loves the water, gets along well with other dogs, and enjoys a good chew toy, this is an event you won’t want to miss! Pre-registration is available online at www.dockdogs.com until one week before the event. Participants can also register on-site each day. The website also provides detailed event schedules and competition information.