What a weekend! Luci had an incredible time at her first-ever IDS Dock Diving Nationals for the 2024 season, hosted at the beautiful Ocala Dog Ranch. Competing in the high-energy events of Velocity (the timed swimming version of dock diving) and Horizon (the classic version)— Luci showed the world just how amazing a rescue dog can be.
Friday’s Regional Win in the Rain
The weekend kicked off on Friday afternoon with Luci competing in Velocity. Despite a downpour that could have thrown off the most seasoned competitors, Luci thrived under pressure and placed first regionally! The rain didn’t slow her down one bit, and she absolutely flew through the water, making her mark as a dog to watch.
Saturday's Narrow Qualification
Saturday brought the tension of Horizon qualification rounds. With over 1,000 dogs invited to Nationals and over 700 competing, Luci was up against stiff competition. But, as we like to say, in the end (after quite the anxiety-inducing wait for this dog mom), she qualified “by the fluff on her tail” for Sunday’s elimination brackets, a huge achievement in itself. Only the top 24 in each division earned the right to compete on Sunday, and Luci was one of the elite few to make the cut.
Sunday's Brackets and Final Performance
While Sunday was long and challenging, Luci gave it her all. She didn't advance past her first head-to-head match, but her efforts still earned her a spot as a top 15 dog overall for her division! That's no small feat considering the talent level she was up against and that back in April, she wasn't even sure she liked the water! Luci's jumps were strong, and she ended the IDS season halfway to her first-ever Dock Diving Title, a milestone that we couldn’t be more proud of.
A Quick Word of Thanks
We owe a tremendous amount of our success to some crucial individuals who have taught us the sport throughout the season and welcomed us into this fun, competitive world of dog sports. To the organizers and fellow members of the Head Start Canine team and league in Green Cove, we are humbled and grateful for your support. #TeamLuci is looking forward to even more and even greater success with each of you by our side! Additionally, thanks to Ocala Dog Ranch and the entire IDS team, who made the season and finals possible, it's no easy feat.
What Comes Next
As we look forward to the 2025 IDS season, Luci’s progress and determination excite us for what’s ahead. Championships were actually just the beginning. We've gone all-in and enrolled Luci in an additional league, NADD (North American Diving Dogs), where she will be able to earn additional titles and experience even more competition. Whether it's rain, shine, or a long day of competition, this mighty rescue dog proves over and over that she's got what it takes to go head-to-head with the best breeding money can buy all the same!
Keep following along to learn more with us and hear about all of the action! Love,
Sadie
Founder & CEO
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