CONCORD ó The Labrador retriever actor from “Marley & Me” will join nearly 900 of the top agility dogs in the nation who will vie for the title of American Kennel Club National Agility Champion this weekend in Concord. Admission is free.
Competition begins today and runs through Sunday at the Cabarrus Arena and Events Center. Individual states will be competing for bragging rights in the AKC International & State Team Tournament today. The National Agility Championship will be contested over five rounds on Saturday and Sunday. The top dog in each of six different jump heights will win the title of 2009 National Agility Champion.
The event features 90 different breeds leaping over jumps, whipping through weave poles and climbing seesaws and A-frames throughout the weekend. National champions in each height division will be crowned Sunday afternoon.
The “Marley & Me” star will pose for $5 photos, with proceeds going to the AKC Humane Fund. Marley will open Saturday’s show at 7:45 a.m.
The Cabarrus Arena and Events Center is at 4751 Highway 49 in Concord. Hours today and Saturday are 8 a.m to 5 p.m. Sunday’s events are 7:30 a.m to 5 p.m.