Splash ’n Dash K9 Sports Hosts First Flash-only Trial
Posted Date: October 1, 2026
Enthusiasm for Flash program continues to grow.
By: Cheyenne Lord
Enthusiastic competitors enjoyed the first WCRL Rally Flash-only trial hosted at Splash ’n Dash K9 Sports, a nonprofit dog training club in Plum, Pennsylvania, in August. According to Gail Vendetti, one of the brains behind the Flash program’s development, the day was full of fun, flowing movements for everybody, especially her dogs Shilo and Cadillac (pictured).
Shilo and Cadillac at Splash 'n Dash K9 Sports
“When I do Flash with my dogs, the briskness of our movements and the flowing executions of the exercises give me a sense of floating through the course,” Gail said. “It almost becomes a dance, and it’s nearly impossible not to have fun! Dogs really enjoy the continuous movement on course; they get to do exercises that are fun, different and exciting, like the spin. I mean, what dog doesn’t love to do some spins!”
From Phyllis Huber’s position as the judge, the day went smoothly and without a hitch. “Both our students and longtime competitors requested a Flash-only trial and loved the opportunity to focus just on Flash,” she said. “Ten new teams earned their Level 1 title. Another local club also reached out and requested a Flash workshop for their students. It’s exciting to see Flash becoming available at more training centers! That trend plays a key role in keeping rally growing strong.”
Phyllis will also be a judge for the 2027 WCRL National Rally Championship (April 30–May 2) and looks forward to seeing everyone enjoy the event, both in regular rally and in Flash.
“When it comes to Flash, I see less hesitation and fewer repeated commands because of the faster pace,” she said. “Both competitors and their canine partners love this program, and I expect the same level of enthusiasm to carry into the championship games.”
WCRL Flash course at Splash 'n Dash K9 Sports
“I love Flash-only venues,” Gail said. “Everyone is so supportive of each other. When entries are low at an event, it’s usually not because people aren’t interested, but because the local clubs don’t offer Flash classes.
The Splash ’n Dash event was a success because there are classes in the surrounding area, and they kept the trial moving by having one active ring for judging and a second one getting prepped for the next level. Once more venues offer Flash and more people are versed in it, I think entries will boom.”
More information on the Flash program can be found under WCRL Rules & Regulations.