MEET OUR NEW FRIENDS: THE MOLTEN MAGNETS FLYBALL TEAM
We’re excited to announce that Butcher’s Nourishing Food for Dogs is now the proud sponsor of the Molten Magnets Flyball Team from Northamptonshire!
Want to know about the paw-some world of flyball and the fantastic team behind it? We had a chat with the Magnets’ team captain, Bhav Patel, to give you an inside look at this unique dog sport and the incredible pups that make it all happen.
What is Flyball?
Picture this: Two teams of four speedy dogs, racing neck-and-neck down a 51-foot course! It’s a fast-paced relay race where each dog zooms over hurdles, hits a Flyball box to release a ball, snatches it up, and sprints back over the jumps.
Once one dog finishes, the next takes off until all four dogs have crossed the finish line. The first team to complete the relay wins! Each race consists of five legs, so teams compete to win the majority of the legs for an overall victory. And just in case any pup needs a breather, teams also have two reserve dogs ready to swap in!
Can my dog take part?
Any dog can join in the fun! 🐕 Big or small, as long as your dog is fit, healthy, and ready to play, they’re welcome. The jumps are even lowered to match the smallest dog’s height, making it an inclusive sport for all breeds.
If you’re thinking about competing, your dog will need to be at least 18 months old. Some pups are naturals and pick it up quickly, while others take their time. The key is having fun with your four-legged friend!
The story behind the Molten Magnets
The Molten Magnets are a talented flyball team from Northamptonshire, proudly playing since 2004. Founded by Jean and Neil Meeking after their previous team relocated, the Magnets have grown under their leadership, with Jean leading the charge to make flyball a hit across the Midlands. In 2017, Bhav Patel stepped up as captain, continuing to expand the team, which now boasts eight open teams and a foundation team with 45 dogs and 38 handlers!
Bhav has been at the helm for seven years, making the team feel like one big, happy family. With a background in dog obedience and as a qualified Canine Hydrotherapist (yes, dog water therapy is a thing!), Bhav runs his own centre at Crown K9 Hydrotherapy. Under his leadership, the team’s core values remain strong: dogs always come first, and their safety and wellbeing are the top priority.
With the help of vice-captain Olivia Harris, who has 30 years of flyball experience alongside Bhav, this team is in expert hands!
The dogs of Molten Magnets
Of course, the real stars are the dogs themselves! The team’s longest-standing member is Bhav’s own Inka, a 9-and-a-half-year-old Border Collie who still runs like the wind. The Magnets are home to a variety of breeds, from German Shepherds to Cocker Spaniels and Terriers, not to mention a number of rescue dogs that have found success in the sport.
One of their most famous pups, Chica (owned by founder Jean), even had a milestone Flyball award named after her – the Chica Chicana Award – in honour of her outstanding achievements.
Training & Events
The Magnets train weekly in Molten, always keeping their eyes on the prize. Their annual goals? To perform their best at both the outdoor and indoor championships, qualify for Crufts, and show off their skills at high-profile events.
Speaking of events, they have a packed schedule, including their 20th Anniversary Dog Show at Sixfields Stadium, Northampton, Oakridge Arena, Crufts Qualifiers, and competitions at Newark Showground.
Thinking of getting involved?
If you are interested in a taste of the Flyball sport and team spirit, why not have a look to see if there are any teams local to you on the British Flyball Association website. Or, if you live local to Molten, the Magnets hold beginner courses every year so you and your dog can experience the thrill of flyball first hand!
Check out their Facebook page to see what they get up to and see their upcoming events.
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