Hasta La Vista Chute
The chute is a classic piece of agility repertoire. The original reason for this obstacle was to test the competitive dog’s ability to confidently run into and through a dark, claustrophobic and snaggy tunnel. (Therefore it has unquestionably been the “terrier’s choice” obstacle!)
As the sport of agility has grown, so has the accuracy and speed for competitive dogs– and consequently, the considerations for handlers and governing organizations. This summer, organizations around the world responded to ongoing concerns about the safety of the chute. Consequently, almost every board voted to remove it from their obstacle list. While the removals were announced as “suspensions,” I think it was a nice way of saying “it’s not you, it’s me…”
Most competitors rejoiced the news, and remaining ones shrugged, or played devil’s advocate online. There are countless clearly documented accidents due to the chute — just google “agility chute accidents” and a wealth of examples will appear. While this is not the first obstacle to be retired, it is definitely the most notable.
Furthermore, this obstacle was just a downright pain! As an dedicated volunteer at trials and fun matches, I spent many a weekend hour in the heat, cold or rain getting up every 20-60 seconds to straighten out the ends of a chute — concerned that a dog might get tangled in it.
My Take?
When I saw the sudden removal of the chute by nearly every major organization, it felt like a domino effect in perfect action. The chute was bump bump bump being “suspended” (removed!), forever. My immediate response was my typical sarcastic reaction…
“One less bleeping TUNNEL TRAP FOR THE TERRIERS!!!”
While I send out my condolences to terriers around the world who will surely miss this deliciously naughty joyride, I am glad to see this unnecessary and dangerous obstacle go.
I had no idea that it was so scary for some! I assumed Reggie and all terriers are so brave. It is my favorite part watching them zoom in there and pop out the other end….what will they replace it with? A solid tunnel? Sorry if I didn’t get that by reading.
Miles would agree with you — what is so scary about the best obstacle ever? Haha! And I agree with you that it is so cute to watch the crazy terriers blast out of the chute.
As for your replacement question — every organization is different in supplementing the chute. For ours, they are offering judges the tunnel, or a jump or two. For other organizations, the replacements vary. 🙂
Em