What is Flyball?

Flyball is a fun, fun relay race for dogs. 

Two teams of four dogs compete against each other for speed and accuracy in retrieving tennis balls.  The dog's task is to run the length of the Flyball lane, flying over a series of four jumps, hitting with his paws a spring-loaded box that holds a tennis ball, --which instantly launches the tennis ball that the dog must catch in his mouth. The dog then returns back over the four jumps with the ball--after which the next dog on the team is released to perform the same task in the same lane. The second team is running in an adjacent lane trying to out-sprint the first team.  Electronic timers are used.  The fastest team wins.  The dogs love it.  They are fanatical about this game and never seem to have enough of it.  The races between the different teams can go on all day, turning a tournament into a most exciting event.

Flyball is a highly addictive sport for both the dog and the handler, providing great stimulation, opportunity for competition, and pride in achievement for all involved. 

Flyball also provides a wonderful way to hang out with other people who love being in the company of their dogs. The game of Flyball intensifies the owner-canine bond.  The excitement and pleasure of the dogs are palpable as they show up on the competition field.  They can hardly wait to get started!

A dog need not be pure-bred to play.  Mixed breeds and rescue dogs are a welcome part of any
Flyball team.  And there is even a special class for the senior dog.  --The last thing an experienced Flyball dog wants is to retire from his game.

The North American Flyball Association (NAFA) is the national organization that creates the game rules, maintains the winning records, and provides achievement awards for the participating dogs and owners.  The Santa Barbara Flyers Dog Sports club has been associated with NAFA from their beginnings in the sport.

Flyball has been around California since the 70's. The Flyers have been competing in Flyball since 1985. The sport has grown throughout the years and now has competing teams all over the world.

The Flyers have classes and practices each week, so come and check us out to see how much fun it can be.

Also keep your eyes and ears open to for our annual Flyball Tournament right here in beautiful Santa Barbara.  Observers are invited to attend free.  To get more information or to get involved in the sport of Flyball, contact our Flyball Director, Disa Prince at freedogfun@gmail.com.

Come on out and play!