Beezer, an eight-year-old Australian Shepherd, has been invited to compete at the 2026 AKC Fast CAT Invitational, an honor reserved for the fastest dogs in the country of each breed. Beezer earned her invitation by achieving an average speed of 28.37 miles per hour across her three fastest qualifying runs in 2025, faster than Olympic sprinter Usain Bolt's record pace of 27.78 mph. She finished the year ranked 15th out of 567 Australian Shepherds nationally.

Fast CAT (Coursing Ability Test) is an AKC-sanctioned sport in which dogs run a timed 100-yard course individually. Dogs compete only against the clock, not against each other, making it a safe, inclusive event open to all breeds, including mixed-breed dogs.

"Being invited to compete is a tremendous honor for us, and I am so grateful that she has this opportunity," Beezer's owner and Norwood resident Tracey Kroll said. "There is no question that for her, Fast CAT is pure joy. She is so happy out there, and she gives it everything she has. For me, the best part is simply watching her run and seeing how much she loves it."

The Fast CAT Invitational takes place in Branson from September 17th to 20th and will bring together the fastest dogs nationwide to celebrate their speed, agility, and natural athleticism.

Photo courtesy of owner Tracey Kroll.